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New DNA test for glaucoma-causing mutation in border collies
“Our research has found that the mutation is only associated with glaucoma in border collies."
Scientists identify variant in the gene OLFML3 

The Animal Health Trust has launched a new DNA test for the genetic mutation that causes glaucoma in border collies.

Scientists from the Roslin Institute originally identified a variant in the gene OLFML3, which is associated with severe goniodysgenesis and glaucoma in this dog breed.

On reading the research, the Animal Health Trust’s genetics team genotyped a large cohort of border collies for the mutation, which allowed the team to obtain an accurate measure of the association between the mutation and goniodysgenesis and glaucoma. All dogs were also given an eye examination and had DNA collected.

The new test was developed and launched following this validation process, which replicated the findings from the Roslin Institute. Breeders will now be able to use the test to reduce the risk of producing puppies affected with glaucoma, which affects more than 1,000 dogs across the UK.

Dr Cathryn Mellersh, head of canine genetics at the Animal Health Trust, said: “We’re delighted to offer this test to border collie breeders and hope in time, through its use, we can lessen the prevalence of this disease in this lovely breed.
 
“Our research has found that the mutation is only associated with glaucoma in border collies, so we will publish our data at the earliest opportunity, in the hope that other commercial DNA testing providers will not be tempted to make the DNA test available to breeds other than the border collie.”

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RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA publishes Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice

The BSAVA has added a small animal nutrition advice booklet to its series of BSAVA guides.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice offers a resource for veterinary professionals to provide appropriate nutrition for animals. As well as maintaining the wellbeing of healthy pets, the guide explores how nutritional requirements change in times of illness and disease.

The guide is divided into five sections, which explore the importance of nutritional assessment; diet types; feeding at different life stages; feeding for specific situations; and feeding for specific diseases. Online resources are also in the BSAVA Library including client handouts and videos.

It is designed to be suitable for referencing, in-depth case planning and team training sessions.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice can be purchased online from the BSAVA store.