Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 10th June 2015
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

New form of glaucoma found in basset hounds
Basset hound
James Oliver discovered signs of POAG during a routine examination of three basset hounds.

AHT launch DNA test to help breeders control the disease

A new form of glaucoma in basset hounds has been discovered by the Animal Health Trust (AHT).

The condition - primary open angle glaucoma (POAG)  -  was discovered by an AHT vet during a routine examination of three basset hounds.

Experts from the AHT's Kennel Club Genetics Centre have now identified the mutation responsible for the condition and a DNA test has been launched to help breeders control the disease.

Primary glaucoma is an inherited condition which is split into two types:  closed angle glaucoma (PCAG) and POAG. Both forms result from reduced drainage of fluid within the eye, causing a build up up pressure which eventually leads to pain and blindness.

James Oliver, a specialist ophthalmologist at the AHT, discovered signs of POAG during a routine examination of three basset hounds. He was investigating PCAG in several popular dog breeds for his PhD.

"I’ve examined thousands of dogs as part of my PhD study into PCAG but this is the first time I’ve stumbled across a form of the disease in a breed that I wasn’t previously aware of," says James.

"POAG has never been recorded before in the Basset Hound, so it’s a really interesting and important discovery for the breed.

“What’s more, as it seems to be an emerging disease in the Basset Hound, the fact that we’ve been able to find the genetic mutation and launch a DNA test so quickly means that breeders should be able to nip this form of glaucoma in the bud before it becomes a wide-spread problem.

“Although we may not have seen many Basset Hounds affected by this form of glaucoma the carrier rate is estimated to be at about 16% in the UK Basset Hound population, which is relatively high. Therefore DNA testing before breeding is going to be really critical in order to get this form of glaucoma under control in this lovely breed.”

The DNA test will cost £48 and is now available to order from the AHT's DNA Testing Service. 

Image (C) Animal Health Trust

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.