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Kennel Club launches new DNA tests
The tests involve a cheek swab to gather DNA.
New tests will check for breed-relevant disorders.

The Kennel Club has launched a range of 87 individual DNA tests to help owners and breeders protect their dogs’ health.

Developed in association with Weatherbys Scientific, a genetics laboratory in Ireland, each test package checks for genetic markers associated with breed-relevant inherited disorders.

The results will be available on The Kennel Club website, helping breeders choose health-tested mates for their dogs and allowing puppy buyers to check that the dog they want came from health-tested parents.

Owners will also be able to learn from the results if their dog is more likely to be affected by certain disorders, helping them to prepare for any potential problems that might develop as the dog gets older.

Bill Lambert, health, welfare and breeding services executive at The Kennel Club, said: “The service extends beyond testing, with results automatically uploaded to dogs’ records, saving breeders time and effort. We also provide breeding advice as an integral part of the offering, and The Kennel Club’s specialist health team are on hand to provide tailored advice over the phone or via email.

“Importantly – and uniquely – those using The Kennel Club DNA Testing Services are directly supporting canine genetic research. Through data collection and reinvestment of all funds, owners using these services are actively contributing to a collective effort to reduce the prevalence of genetic diseases in dogs.”

Image © The Kennel Club and James Robinson

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Reporting service for dead wild birds updated

News Story 1
 The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.

The new version allows those reporting a dead bird to drop a pin on a map when reporting the location. It also includes a wider range of wild bird species groups to select from when describing the bird.

The online service, which helps APHA to monitor the spread of diseases such as avian influenza, can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NI chief vet urges bluetongue vigilance

Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer (CVO) has urged farmers to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue, after the Animal and Plant Health Agency warned there was a very high probability of further cases in Great Britain.

There have been 126 confirmed cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 in England since November 2023, with no cases reported in Northern Ireland. The movement of live ruminants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is currently suspended.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the virus is most likely to enter Northern Ireland through infected animals or germplasm (semen or ova) being imported.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland's CVO, said: "Surveillance for this disease within Northern Ireland has been increased to assist with detection at the earliest opportunity which will facilitate more effective control measures."

Farmers should report any suspicions of the disease to their private veterinary practitioner, the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or their local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.