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New website on canine inherited conditions launches
Information on 130 dog breeds available
A website containing information on the health of 130 dog breeds has been launched to allow potential dog owners to research the inherited health problems which are associated with particular breeds of dog. The site includes information on the coefficient of inbreeding, the health schemes and tests that are available for a breed, the potential health and welfare problems caused by a breed's conformation, and other breed-related diseases for which no screening or tests are currently available. More general advice on temperament and breeds that fit best with certain lifestyles is also offered.

The site, www.dogbreedhealth.com, was developed by Carol Fowler after her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel died from syringomyelia in 2003. “I decided to create the Dog Breed Health website to provide people with information on the genetic health of most UK breeds in an easily accessible and understandable format,” relates Ms Fowler. “Until now, if people wanted to find this information for different breeds, they would have to do extensive research because much of the information isn't easily available. I hope this website will help future dog owners to make better choices and will also help to improve the future genetic health of dogs.”

Advice on the content was generously provided by a large number of veterinary surgeons including BVA past President Harvey Locke, RCVS-recognised specialist in veterinary neurology Clare Rusbridge and Veterinary Epidemiologist for the RVC's VetCompass Project Dan O'Neill.

Chairman of the Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) Mr Neil Parish MP has praised the site and announced APGAW's endorsement. Commenting, Mr Parish said “The website is an excellent way of informing the public of what to look for when buying a puppy or dog and provides easy-to-understand information on health issues. Really anyone thinking about taking on the responsibility of owning a dog should look at this website to ensure they know what it entails and what pitfalls there are when making a breed choice. A tremendous amount of work has gone into creating something to help both members of the public and also the future welfare of dogs, and APGAW is pleased to endorse this website.”

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.