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Questionnaire for Italian spinone owners
Study to improve breed genetics

Italian spinone owners have been asked to participate in a survey to help understand and treat common health defects in the breed.

Specialists at the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) are looking into cancer, epilepsy and gastric dilation/torsion (bloat) to help them treat such conditions in future patients.

Owners of Kennel Club (KC) registered Italian spinones that were born between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2011 are urged to complete a questionnaire.

The questionnaire forms part of a genetics study. By understanding these health defects, it is hoped that breeders will be able to rear healthier Italian spinone generations in the future.

The AHT and KC have already worked together to develop DNA tests for various other breeds in a similar way, including beagles and cavalier King Charles spaniels.

KC Secretary Caroline Kisco said: "Breeders and breed clubs all want to understand, treat and ultimately eliminate conditions that can affect their beloved breed. The Kennel Club registers around 250,000 puppies each year and these vast pedigree records and our contact with breeders are vital to helping us improve the health of all dogs in the future.

"We are grateful to the Italian Spinone Breed Club of Great Britain for supporting this study and look forward to working with breeders and the Animal Health Trust on this important project.”

Cathryn Mellersh, head of genetics at the centre, added: “At the moment we don’t have a clear picture about the incidence of cancer, epilepsy and bloat in the Italian Spinone. By working with the breeders of Kennel Club registered dogs, we hope to considerably increase our understanding of these diseases, so that we can find treatments and develop tools that will help breeders to breed future generation of Spinones that are less likely to be affected.”

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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 

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News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

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.