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Multiple cases of mystery dog illness
SCI already making itself felt

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has confirmed that it has had reports of suspected cases of Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) from all of its five study sites since the end of August.

While it is not known whether there have been any fatal cases as yet, SCI claimed the lives of several dogs during autumn 2009, 2010 and 2011 and dog owners are advised to be vigilant for symptoms, and vets to report any suspected cases to the AHT.

Charlotte Robin, SCI Research Co-ordinator at the AHT, said: “We have had a great response to our online SCI questionnaire from dog owners with more than 200 questionnaires completed to date. Of these, there have been 14 suspected cases of SCI reported to us.
 
“These 14 cases are those which fit our case definition. There could, of course, be more cases that are occurring but have not been reported to us.”
 
The AHT’s investigation continues at five previously-affected sites across England, all of which have had cases reported at them since the end of August:
  • Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
  • Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk
  • Sandringham Estate, Norfolk
  • Sherwood Forest*, Nottinghamshire
  • Thetford Forest, Norfolk.
 
Whilst the AHT’s investigation focusses on these five study sites, the veterinary charity is quick to highlight that dogs could be at risk of SCI walking in any woodland during autumn, so it advises dog owners to remain vigilant and seek veterinary advice immediately if they suspect their dog has SCI.

For more information, click here.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.