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Breed Watch improved for dogs

Changes to pedigree breed health monitoring service

The Kennel Club's Breed Watch service has been improved to enhance the health and welfare of pedigree dogs, as well as ensuring that breed health information is properly recorded and up to date.

Physical health points of concern, such as exaggerations, for pedigree breeds are being addressed by breeders, dog clubs and the veterinary profession.

Improvements to the acknowledged points of concern are recorded via Breed Watch, which also enables people to monitor and research emerging physical traits before they become detrimental to a breed.

New changes to Breed Watch include the requirement for all championship dog show judges to report their observations of certain breeds categorised on Breed Watch to the Kennel Club, rather than just the High Profile Breeds, as of 2014.

Judges are still asked to report any visible conditions that they consider detrimental to any other breed's health, welfare and happiness. They will now be given a form at the end of each show, allowing them to record their observations for health monitoring purposes.

The Kennel Club's Dog Health Group will be in charge of feedback from judges.

Further information for Breed Watch is gathered from health surveys, dog health experts and consultations with breed clubs. This information is then used to categorise each breed as either a High Profile Breed, a breed under Breed Watch due to points of concern, or a breed with no current points of concern.

Breeds move up or down the categories as health concerns are reported or reported as no longer prevalent, along with veterinary checks and sufficient information being gathered.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said: "With the gathering of more information from judges and other sources, the Kennel Club will be in a better position to understand the health of each breed and work with judges, breeders and exhibitors to take preventative action with regard to new and emerging conditions."

Click here for the Breed Watch section of the Kennel Club website.

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
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The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.