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Itchy dog project to tackle canine dermatitis
Only purebred Labradors and golden retrievers can be registered with the project.
Study could impact breeding methods and future treatment

Owners of Labradors and golden retrievers are being invited to take part in a new study into canine dermatitis.

Launching at Crufts, the Itchy Dog Project will be carried out by the University of Nottingham’s Vet School.

The project aims to investigate the potential genetic and environmental causes of canine atopic dermatitis and develop a strategy to reduce the number of dogs affected by the disease.

Owners are being invited to take part in the research online, even if their dog does not have a problem with itchy skin.

“We know that at least 10 per cent of dogs suffer from long-term skin allergies and it can have a serious impact on their lives, and on the owners’ lives in dealing with it,” said vet school research fellow, Dr Naomi Harvey.

“We need to collect data on both atopic (itchy) and non-atopic (non-itchy) dogs from these breeds so we can look for differences between them at a genetic, environmental and behavioural level to help us better understand the causes and impact of the disease.

“Only purebred Labradors and golden retrievers, aged three years and over, can be registered with the project.”

Owners taking part in the study will need to complete an online survey after registering their dog on the Itchy Dog website. The survey will ask questions about their dog’s health and lifestyle and should only take 10 minutes to complete.

Participants will then receive a link to a second survey by email, which will focus on their dog’s behaviour. Eligible dog owners may also be invited to provide a sample of their dog’s saliva so that researchers can analyse their DNA.

“This is a great opportunity for dog lovers to get involved in some citizen science that could have a huge impact on future treatment and possibly even breeding methods,” said professor Gary England, Dean of Nottingham Vet School.

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here. 

Click here for more...
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WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.