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Light
at the end of the Copper Toxicosis tunnel
Following the recent announcement by a research team at Utrecht
University of the discovery of the gene mutation responsible
for Copper Toxicosis in the Bedlington Terrier, The Kennel Club
hosted a meeting of representatives of the three Bedlington
Terrier Clubs, the Bedlington Terrier Liver Malfunction Sub-Committee
and Working Bedlingtons to discuss the way forward when this
new information is used to develop a mutant-gene-based DNA test
for the condition.
Such a gene-based test will accurately diagnose whether an individual
Bedlington is genetically clear, a carrier or affected, from
a small amount of tissue such as a blood sample.
It was agreed that the following recommendations should be put
to the Clubs to take effect once the new gene-based DNA test
is available:
a) An official KC testing scheme should be set up. This means
that test results would be recorded and printed on KC registration
documents, in the Breed Records Supplement and on the KC website.
It is anticipated that fast-track testing of litters where appropriate
can be arranged.
b) Any animals to be used for breeding should be tested prior
to mating.
c) At least one parent should be tested clear before mating.
d) DNA profiling should be incorporated into a gene test so
that all tested Bedlingtons are permanently identified.
e) Breed clubs should consider subsidising the cost of profiling
if necessary.
f) Breed clubs and individuals should take all possible steps
to disseminate information to owners that do not register puppies.
g) The process should be monitored and there should be another
representative discussion in 2 years time to evaluate progress
and draft proposals to move towards a breed control scheme in
line with the document 'The Role of the Kennel Club in the Control
of Inherited Disease'. Such a control scheme could set time
limits on the use of affected and carrier dogs.
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