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PhD project to develop skull classification system
Claire hopes her research will also help in the creation of new dental products for dogs.
Project to assess relationship between skull shape and dental health

A pioneering project to develop the world’s first dog skull classification system may assist vets in the identification of dogs that are more likely to develop dental health problems.

Animal welfare and management lecturer Claire Mitchell is undertaking the research as part of her PhD project at the University of Northampton.

Claire is currently collecting photographs of hundreds of dogs so that she can measure their heads. The measurements will then be used to establish groups of head shape that are more appropriate for the canine population.

Claire predicts the system will comprise of around five categories, including dolichocephalic and brachycephalic breeds. In addition to developing a set of skull shape categories, she also hopes her research will help in the creation of new dental products.

Commenting, Claire Mitchell said: “I am almost at my target for public images of their dog’s heads but I’m still seeking more of the flatter faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs. Following on from the measuring phase, I am looking to collect retrospective dental health data on the UK dog population to see whether there are any categories that are more likely to suffer from dental health problems.”

Dogs of all shapes and sizes are invited to take part in the project, instructions can be found at http://www.moulton.ac.uk/Moulton/media/GeneralMedia/Animal/M11514-Dog-Skull-Measuring-ELECTRONIC-FORM_1.pdf

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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

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 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
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Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."