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New DNA testing schemes for the Norwegian elkhound
The Kennel Club has approved two new official DNA testing schemes for primary open angle glaucoma and chondrodysplasia in the Norwegian elkhound.

Schemes to combat primary open glaucoma and chondrodysplasia

Two new DNA testing schemes to combat inherited disease in the Norwegian elkhound have been approved by the Kennel Club.

The DNA testing schemes, announced following consultation with the breed clubs, are for primary open glaucoma (POAG) and chondrodysplasia (CDSL).

POAG is caused by inadequate draining of fluid from the eye and can lead to irreversible blindness. Until now there has been no means of clinically screening for the conditions, and clinical signs tend to first appear in middle-aged dogs, often after breeding age.

Chondrodysplasia is a condition that affects the development and growth of the skeleton, manifesting as a shortening of the limbs or disproportionate dwarfism. The severity of the condition varies among the species.

“The Kennel Club works alongside breed clubs and breed health coordinators in a collaborative effort to improve the health of pedigree dogs and is happy to accommodate a club's request to add a new DNA test to its lists,” the Kennel Club said in a statement. 


“A formal request from the breed's health coordinator or a majority request from the breed clubs is normally required to do this. Test results will be added to the dog’s registration details which will trigger the publication of the result in the next available Breed Records Supplement. 


“The result will appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog, and also on the Health Test Results Finder on the Kennel Club website.”


It is mandatory for the dog’s microchip (or tattoo) number to be recorded along wither the dog’s registered name or registered number on any DNA certificate. Test results that do not carry these features will not be included on the Kennel Club database.

To find out which laboratories the Kennel Club is able to record results from, and which labs will send results direct to the Kennel Club, to the worldwide DNA testing list at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/worldwide-dna-tests.

Image (C) Diane Pearce Collection/The Kennel Club.

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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.