
An official new DNA testing scheme has been approved for neuroaxonal dystrophy (NAD) in papillons, the Kennel Club has announced.
NAD is an early onset neurodegenerative disease that involves severe swelling of the nerve fibres.
Clinical signs usually appear between one and four months of age. They include head tremor, wobbly gait and inability to stand and walk, progressing to cerebellar ataxia, inability to eat, blindness and deafness.
Most affected individuals do not survive past the age of seven to eight months.



Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.