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DNA mutation linked to breathing issues in dogs
The mutated version of the ADAMTS3 gene was common in French and English bulldogs, scientists found.
Status of ADAMTS3 gene ‘should be considered’ alongside skull shape

Scientists have discovered a DNA mutation that is linked to breathing problems in dogs, including brachycephalic breeds.

Difficulty breathing is generally associated with breeds such as pugs, English bulldogs and French bulldogs. However, scientists have said the mutation is also carried by Norwich terriers, which have proportional noses.

A research team led by the Roslin Institute analysed DNA from more than 400 Norwich terriers. Vets also carried out clinical examinations of the dogs’ airways to check for signs of disease.

A mutation was found in the ADAMTS3 gene, which is not linked to skull shape but has previously been found to cause fluid retention and swelling. The mutated version of the gene was also common in French and English bulldogs, which researchers say could explain why some dogs suffer breathing issues and complications after surgery to correct the problem.

Researchers suggested that fluid retention in the tissue that lines the airways could result in breathing problems for dogs with the mutation. The findings have been published in the journal PLOS Genetics.

Popular flat-faced breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are known to be commonly affected by brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Scientists previously thought their extreme facial conformation was the only explanation for their breathing problems, but Norwich terriers suffer from a similar problem called upper airway syndrome.

Lead author Dr Jeffrey Schoenebeck said: “BOAS is a complex disease. Although skull shape remains an important risk factor, our study suggests that the status of ADAMTS3 should be considered as well. More studies are needed to dissect the complex nature of this devastating disease.”

The findings could lead to genetic tests that could help vets identify at-risk animals, helping breeders to avoid producing affected puppies.

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Antibiotic Amnesty survey opens

News Story 1
 The Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance - Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA - CA&E) has launched a survey which seeks to measure the success of this year's Antibiotic Amnesty campaign.

Its results will help the group to calculate how many unused or out-of-date antibiotics were returned as part of the campaign throughout November. Practices are also asked how they engaged with clients to raise awareness of the issue.

Participating practices can enter a prize draw to win up to 100 in vouchers for taking part. Further prizes from BSAVA and Webinar Vet will be available for practices with the best input.

The survey takes a few minutes to complete and will be running throughout December. It can be accessed via this link

Click here for more...
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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.