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Blinding inherited condition found in giant schnauzers
The genetic mutation that causes PRA in giant schnauzers occurs in approximately one in 35 dogs. 
Geneticists ID genetic mutation and launch DNA test 

Scientists at the Animal Health Trust (AHT) have developed a DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in giant schnauzers, a previously undiagnosed condition in the breed.

PRA may initially cause dogs to lose their vision in low light at night, have difficulty seeing obstacles or finding their way in familiar surroundings. Visual impairment worsens over months or years and, eventually, all affected dogs will lose their sight.

The condition is well documented in more than 100 dog breeds but had not previously been identified in giant schnauzers.

DNA samples were sent to AHT from a litter of four-year-old giant schnauzers, two of which had previously been diagnosed with PRA. Testing confirmed one further dog from the same litter also had PRA, while the parents were clear of the disease.

This confirmed the presence of an autosomal recessive PRA, where the affected dog has to carry two copies of the PRA-causing variant to develop the disease.

Scientists were able to identify the causal mutation - a single letter change in the 2.4 billion letter DNA code. They discovered this mutation occurs in approximately one in 35 giant schnauzers.  

Research assistant Rebekkah Hitti said: “As this condition in the Giant Schnauzer is quite rare we’re not expecting to find many affected dogs through DNA testing, but it is crucial to identify any carriers in order to prevent more puppies being born with this blinding condition, and to stop it becoming more widespread in future.
 
“We’ve had a good level of interest in this research so far from Schnauzer breeders and we’re confident that this breeding community is keen to get this mutation under control, and in time, eradicate it safely from their breed altogether.”

The DNA test costs £48 and is now available from the AHT DNA Testing Service.
 

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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.