ANIMAL HEALTH
Health Screening Schemes and DNA Tests
There are several types of screening schemes that can aid breeders in the detection of some inherited diseases or, in the case of DNA testing schemes, the presence or absence of disease genes.
BVA/KC Health Schemes
The Kennel Club runs clinical veterinary screening schemes together with the British Veterinary Association which aim to detect the presence of signs of the inherited diseases of hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and eye diseases and therefore help breeders to choose breeding stocks that are free of disease.
DNA Screening Schemes
Where a gene based DNA test exists and is available in the UK, the Kennel Club, in conjunction with breed clubs and several centres or laboratories, runs DNA screening schemes for breeders which can provide precise information as to the genetic status of breeding stock with regard to certain diseases.