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New DNA testing scheme for beagles
Kennel Club approves testing for NCCD

The Kennel Club has approved a new DNA testing scheme for neonatal cerebellar cortical degeneration (NCCD) in beagles.

The announcement follows a consultation with the beagle breed health coordinator on behalf of the  breed clubs.

The test will be offered by the Animal Health Trust (AHT), who will issue copies of all future test results to the Kennel Club. The result will then be added to the dog's registration details, and published in the next available Breed Records Supplement.

Any new registration certificate issued for the dog will include the test result, and if owners supply an original certificate, the Kennel Club will issue a new certificate with the test result on it, free of charge.

Test results will appear on the registration certificates of any future offspring of the dog, and in the Health Test Results Finder on the Kennel Club's website.

The AHT will also send the Kennel Club results from dogs that were DNA tested prior to May 2013, assuming the owner agreed to the submission of results.

More information can be found on the AHT's website.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.