The Kennel Club has announced it will provide BVA/KC/ISDS eye testing at the upcoming International Agility Festival, alongside a 15% discount on its DNA Testing Services throughout August.
The festival is scheduled for 8-11 August 2024 at Rutland Showground, Oakham.
As part of the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club/International Sheepdog Society (BVA/KC/ISDS) Eye Test Scheme, canine eye testing will be available on Thursday, 8 August. This service aims to identify potential hereditary eye conditions in dogs, offering crucial information about eye health. It also assists breeders in making informed decisions. The tests will be conducted by veterinary ophthalmologist Paul McPherson BVMS CertVOphthal MRCVS, and are open to all breeds.
Testing is available by appointment, with a fee of £40 per dog. Owners are encouraged to pre-book to secure a slot, as demand is expected to be high. Appointments can be made through the Kennel Club website at thekennelclub.org.uk/iafeyetests.
Discounted DNA Testing Services
In addition to the eye testing, the Kennel Club is offering a 15% discount on all Breed-Specific DNA testing packages. This offer is valid throughout August via the Kennel Club’s DNA Testing Services. Currently available for 78 breeds, these services provide an accessible and cost-effective way to perform comprehensive genetic health tests. The results, accompanied by breeding and care advice, are designed to be straightforward to interpret.
The DNA Testing Services, developed in partnership with Weatherbys Scientific, assist breeders in managing breed-relevant diseases. The service also contributes to canine genetic research, with all collected data and funds reinvested into ongoing research and health initiatives.
Advancing Canine Health and Research
The Kennel Club utilises insights from this research to inform its Breed Health and Conservation Plans. These plans are the result of reviewing over 4,000 research papers, making them the most comprehensive assessment of pedigree health data globally. They help track progress and implement meaningful changes to breed health.
To benefit from the discounted DNA testing packages, participants can visit the Kennel Club website. Select the relevant Breed-Specific Package, and use the promotional code KCIAF15.
For more details about the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Test Scheme and the Kennel Club DNA Testing Services, visit the Kennel Club website. Further information about the International Agility Festival, taking place from 8-11 August, can also be found at thekennelclub.org.uk/iaf.
