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AHT to assist at Olympics
AHT to provide free EI tests

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has been asked to help minimise any risks associated with equine flu between now and the end of July, following outbreaks of the disease in France and South America earlier this year.

Equine Influenza can spread even in vaccinated horses, and surveillance has been heightened in the run-up to the Olympic Games.

The AHT is offering free testing for the equine flu virus, and will provide the necessary equipment to veterinary surgeons at no charge, and neither will any fees be charged for EI specific laboratory testing. For more information about free testing, click here.

Meanwhile, horse owners are being encouraged to watch out for signs in yards where animals have returned from competitions, both in the UK and abroad. It is easy to miss mild or non-specific signs in vaccinated animals so it is important to stay vigilant.

Dr Richard Newton, Head of Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance at the AHT, said: “Using rapid and sensitive viral detection methods applied to respiratory samples (especially swabs from the nose and throat) has greatly improved the accuracy of diagnosing EI.

“The UK’s Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry has supported our World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) laboratory initiatives through Horserace Betting Levy Board funding and now is the time for us all to make the most of the excellent systems we have in place.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.