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Questionnaire for Italian spinone owners
Study to improve breed genetics

Italian spinone owners have been asked to participate in a survey to help understand and treat common health defects in the breed.

Specialists at the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) are looking into cancer, epilepsy and gastric dilation/torsion (bloat) to help them treat such conditions in future patients.

Owners of Kennel Club (KC) registered Italian spinones that were born between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2011 are urged to complete a questionnaire.

The questionnaire forms part of a genetics study. By understanding these health defects, it is hoped that breeders will be able to rear healthier Italian spinone generations in the future.

The AHT and KC have already worked together to develop DNA tests for various other breeds in a similar way, including beagles and cavalier King Charles spaniels.

KC Secretary Caroline Kisco said: "Breeders and breed clubs all want to understand, treat and ultimately eliminate conditions that can affect their beloved breed. The Kennel Club registers around 250,000 puppies each year and these vast pedigree records and our contact with breeders are vital to helping us improve the health of all dogs in the future.

"We are grateful to the Italian Spinone Breed Club of Great Britain for supporting this study and look forward to working with breeders and the Animal Health Trust on this important project.”

Cathryn Mellersh, head of genetics at the centre, added: “At the moment we don’t have a clear picture about the incidence of cancer, epilepsy and bloat in the Italian Spinone. By working with the breeders of Kennel Club registered dogs, we hope to considerably increase our understanding of these diseases, so that we can find treatments and develop tools that will help breeders to breed future generation of Spinones that are less likely to be affected.”

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.