KC and AHT to fund new genetics centre

THE KENNEL Club Charitable Trust and the Animal Health Trust (AHT) are to jointly fund a genetics centre.
The centre will be at situated the AHT in Newmarket, and will specialise in the development of techniques and tests such as DNA tests and ‘estimated breeding value techniques’, which determine how suitable a dog is to use as breeding stock.
Speaking on the opening day of Crufts, KC chairman Ronnie Irving described the move as ‘a new initiative of co-operation’. He said the latest scientific advices would provide breeders of pedigree dogs with the tools to combat diseases known to have a high degree of heritability.
“We believe this is an important new initiative and unique step in the future interest of pedigree dogs,” he said.
The media gathered to hear him and secretary Caroline Kisko speak were told that this year exhibitors might be less likely to want to speak to reporters.
“They may even be hostile and less than helpful,” Mrs Kisko said. “But at the moment they do feel a bit got at.”
The KC has advised people that if they are approached by any members of the national media they should refer questions to KC staff who can then put the reporters in touch with breed spokesmen. This follows new media interest in the hobby since the programme Pedigree Dogs Exposed.
Mr Irving welcomed everyone present to Crufts, what he described as a celebration of happy, healthy dogs.
“We’re here to tell you the truth about all the hard work being done by so many people to improve the health and welfare of dogs,” he said. “And I hope that, while you are here, you will learn a thing or two about how much we really do care about our dogs – pedigree dogs in particular.”
In fact, he said, reports of Crufts demise had been ‘greatly exaggerated’ and were not true. This year’s show has attracted the third highest entry in its 119-year history, with 28,000 dogs. There would be around 28,000 dogs competing for best in show.
“The simple truth is that the vast majority of these dogs are perfectly fit and healthy,” he said. “Only those who are will succeed at this show. The judges have all been briefed to remind them that the health of the dogs should be their primary concern when assessing each dog in the show, and there will be monitoring in place to ensure that this is carried out.
“The judges are fully aware of their obligation not to reward, and if necessary to remove from the ring, any dog they deem to be unsound, and a clear procedure is in place should this need arise.”
The KC believes that changes to breeds cannot happen overnight, and that it was breeders and judges who would in the show ring and help bring about the fastest, most positive change where that happens to be needed.
“Crufts is just one of over 3,300 shows in this country licensed by the KC each year, so the scope for promoting and rewarding healthy dogs at the 60-plus such shows a week held throughout the year, is enormous.”
But Crufts offered a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on the good work being done, he said, and there was a new health stand in hall 3 where AHT and KC experts and those involved in the KC/British Veterinary Association canine health schemes, would be present to talk to all dog enthusiasts about our various health initiatives and a whole range of dog health topics to help them ensure that their dogs’ lives are as healthy as possible.
Although a few large animal charities are not at Crufts this year, many are, Mr Irving said.
“We are glad that they have chosen to stand shoulder to shoulder with us in looking at ways to improve the health and welfare of dogs. In our view it is,” he said. “It’s absolutely essential that those organisations and individuals that really do care about dog health and welfare and want to make a difference take a stand at Crufts.”
He thanked those who had travelled from overseas to be there despite the current economic climate. There is a record entry of overseas competitors this year, with 1,186 dogs attending from 34 different countries.