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New DNA testing schemes for Labrador retrievers approved
The tests screen for two inherited eye disorders in Labrador retrievers.
The tests screen for macular corneal dystrophy and Stragadt’s disease.

Two new DNA testing schemes for Labrador retrievers have been announced by the Kennel Club following consultation with the respective breed health coordinators.

The tests screen for macular corneal dystrophy and Stargadt’s disease - two inherited eye conditions that lead to problems with sight. Results will be added to the dog's registration details, triggering the publication of the result in the next available Breed Records Supplement and on the Health Test Results Finder.

“The Kennel Club constantly reviews DNA testing schemes in conjunction with breed clubs to ensure that breeders are supported with resources which help them to make responsible breeding decisions,” explained Dr Joanna Ilska, genetics and research manager at The Kennel Club.

“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 consider a club's request to add a new DNA test to its lists. A formal request from the breed's health coordinator or a majority request from the breed clubs is normally required to do this.” 

Dogs affected by macular corneal dystrophy experience a build-up of carbohydrates causing the eye surface to become cloudy. The eyes become more clouded as the condition progresses, which affects their vision.

Stargadt’s disease affects the light-sensing parts of the eyes, causing them to deteriorate and cause vision loss, dilated pupils and a reduced response to light. The condition usually worsens with age but does not usually cause complete blindness.

The diseases are described as autosomal-recessive, meaning that a dog must inherit two copies of an abnormal gene (one from its mother and one from its father) before its health is affected. 

To find out which laboratories The Kennel Club can record results from and which labs will send the results direct to The Kennel Club, visit thekennelclub.org.uk/mcd and thekennelclub.org.uk/stgd

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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  

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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.