Manchester Dog Show Society was founded in 1861 and predates even the Kennel Club. From the beginning, the Society has been known for its innovative ideas and this remains true today. 

In preparation for the celebrations to mark the 150^th anniversary of its foundation next year, Manchester Dog Show Society has donated £6,500 to the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket.

The money will be used to purchase a piece of equipment which will benefit the research that is currently being undertaken by the molecular genetics group.  This equipment will help streamline the analysis of all current and future research projects.

The Kennel Club Genetics Centre is aiming to undertake research into around 25 inherited canine diseases over the next five years, facilitating the creation of DNA tests to improve the health and welfare of generations of dogs.

The Centre has already celebrated its first success, with the discovery of the genetic mutation which causes Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) in a number of breeds. This discovery stemmed from the work of geneticists working in the Genetics Centre, led by Dr Cathryn Mellersh, in collaboration with Dr David Sargan (Cambridge University) and Dr David Gould (Davies Veterinary Specialists).

A DNA test, using a simple cheek swab, has been made available at the AHT to help breeders choose dogs which carry the minimum risk of producing puppies affected with the disease. This test has proved popular with breeders, with over 3,500 tests conducted in the first four months of its availability.

Caroline Kisko, the Kennel Club’s Communications Director said: “We are extremely grateful to the Manchester Dog Show Society for supporting the work of the Kennel Club Genetics Centre with this generous donation. It helps demonstrate the commitment among dog enthusiasts at all levels to try to eliminate those inherited conditions which may affect pedigree dogs, so that all dogs may live the kind of happy, healthy lives currently enjoyed by the large majority.”

ENDS
28^th July 2010
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