Health Documents

Ticks In Britain Report - A Timely Reminder To Treat Pets

The main findings were:

1.         The average frequency of tick infestation in all dogs examined between March and October was nearly 15% .  The results suggest that the risk of tick infestation is far higher in dogs than was previously thought. This has serious implications in relation to the incidence of tick-borne diseases and is a timely reminder of the vital importance of tick treatment in pets.

2.         Over 72% of the ticks were identified as sheep ticks and nearly 22% were hedgehog ticks.  However, 5 cases of the European meadow tick were also found in West Wales and south-eastern England.   This is a tick species previously only found in continental Europe and there is concern that this particular species of tick is becoming established in Britain.  In Europe, this tick is responsible for transmitting a form of babesiosis and scientists have warned that this and other new strains of disease may be introduced from the continent.  The presence of this “new” species is thought to be a likely result of increased animal and human movements around the world, as well as the changing climate. 

3.         Gundog, terrier and pastoral breeds were more likely to carry ticks, as were non-neutered dogs

4.         Dogs with shorter hair were less likely to have ticks.

5.         Dogs were most likely to carry a tick in June and least likely in March.

There are many tick-borne diseases which can have a devastating impact on pets, livestock and humans and it is hoped that this research will remind pet owners of their duty towards their animals' health and welfare.

This is a timely reminder of the vital importance of tick treatment for pets both in this country and when travelling abroad. It is a particularly important message as we approach the summer when owners should be treating their animals at regular intervals.

Moreover,  these findings highlight the reason why tick treatment is a compulsory part of the Pet Travel Scheme, in order to reduce the likelihood of exotic ticks entering the UK.

For further advise:

a.         Consult your veterinary surgeon.

b.         The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation's leaflet on 'Taking your pets abroad' provides further information about diseases that may be encountered abroad and how to avoid them.  This leaflet can be downloaded from: www.bva-awf.co.uk

c.         Consult with DEFRA if you are considering taking your dog abroad.

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2010 BREEDERS’ SYMPOSIUM – Breeding for Health

Royal Veterinary College, Sunday 28th November

The Kennel Club and the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association are pleased to present a Breeders' Symposium at the Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire on Sunday 28th November 2010.

This symposium is specifically designed for all dog lovers and dog breeders. This year we have chosen a theme which is highly relevant and which we hope is of considerable interest to breeders. After each presentation, we have allocated time for questions relating to the talk.

PROGRAMME FOR THE DAY

09.30 - 10.00 Registration and refreshments

10.00- 10.10 Introduction
The Chairman will open the day's proceedings.

10.10 – 10.55 Estimated breeding values
Dr Tom Lewis of the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust will explain the development of estimated breeding values, their calculation and their application to dog breeding.

10.55 - 11.10 Question and answer session

11.10 – 11.55 Managing genetic diversity for long-term health
Dr Sarah Blott, a quantitative geneticist from the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust, will discuss the measurement and management of diversity within breeds and explain new tools for dog breeders.

11.55 –12.10 Question and answer session

12.30 – 13.30 BUFFET LUNCH (including tea/coffee)

13.45 – 14.30 IT developments at the Kennel Club
Prof Jeff Sampson will discuss the ways in which the Kennel Club is embracing new technologies and applications as well as plans for improving the amount of information available to breeders.

14.30 – 14.45 Question and answer session

14.45 – 15.30 DNA testing for inherited disease – an update on the Kennel Club Genetics Centre
Dr Cathryn Mellersh heads the Canine Genetics research team within the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust and will outline recent developments

15.30 – 15.45 Question and answer session

15.45 Close of day

Booking Form Can be Found HERE

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Letter From Susan Haywood BVSc, PhD, MRCVS

We have the initial results of the genotyping and have agreed on the following statement:-

“ Initial screening of genotypes of CT affected and control Bedlingtons has indicated a possible association between a region of a particular chromosome and elevated copper but we will need to genotype more affected and unaffected dogs to confirm this association. Meanwhile we are investigating the region to see if it harbours any genes that can be considered plausible candidates for increased copper.  Any outstanding candidate genes may be sequenced in affected and unaffected dogs to see if any mutations can be identified.  If no good candidate genes reside in the region we will need to wait until more affected and unaffected dogs can be genotyped before progressing."

So cautious optimism but this is going to take some time and we could do with more CT dogs minus COMMD1 deletions. We do have funds to offer a free analysis due to savings made on pooling resources with AHT so if you can make this all known to the BTA.

With best wishes

Susan

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Amendments to B Regulations - The Kennel Club

Click HERE for more

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A letter from Susan Haywood BVSc, PhD, MRCVS

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