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Sandringham Estate warns of mystery dog illness
woodland dog
SCI affects dogs during the autumn, with cases usually being seen between August and November. (stock photo)
Seasonal canine illness has affected dogs at the estate in previous years
 
The Queen's Sandringham Estate has issued a warning about the risks of seasonal canine illness (SCI), a mysterious and sometimes fatal illness that can affect dogs that have been walked in woodland.

A statement on the estate's website reads: 'We are approaching the time of year when cases of Seasonal Canine Illness appear in some dogs walked in the Country Park. SCI symptoms include lethargy, vomiting and diarrhoea and some dogs have died of this illness.

'Dog owners should keep their dogs on leads and under close control, and may wish to consider topical spray treatments for mites. Dogs showing any signs of SCI symptoms should be seen by a vet immediately.'

Last year, it was reported that 15 dogs developed SCI after visiting the estate, prompting criticism from some owners, who say there were insufficient warnings.

SCI affects dogs during the autumn, with cases usually being seen between August and November. It causes dogs to become very ill soon after being walked in woodland, and can prove fatal.

The cause of the illness is unknown and there are no known methods of prevention. However, the Animal Health Trust (AHT) says dogs owners may wish to ask their vet about topical spray treatments for mites, which can be applied to the animal just before a walk.

A spokesman for Sandringham Estate is quoted by The Telegraph as saying: "The estate makes every effort to spread awareness of seasonal canine illness with the public and to guide dog owners to keep their dogs on leads when walking on the estate."

Warning posters and flyers have been put up at the visitor centre and country park, including the main dog walking areas, car parks and camping and caravan sites.

The spokesman added: "We are not aware of any cases of seasonal canine illness on the estate this year."

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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.