The Kennel Club has approved a new official DNA testing scheme for Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) in English Springer Spaniels; the fifth most popular breed of dog in the UK.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “The Kennel Club is constantly reviewing DNA testing schemes in conjunction with breed clubs to ensure that breeders are able to continue breeding healthy dogs. This new DNA test for the breed will help breeders make informed decisions when it comes to breeding, enable potential puppy buyers to be aware of issues which could affect their chosen breed, and ultimately protect and maintain the health of English Springers.”
More information about the test, can be obtained directly from Antagene. The results of the test can only be recorded upon owner submission to The Kennel Club. Test results will then be added to the dog’s registration details and will appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog, and also on the Health Test Results Finder on the Kennel Club website. Results for dogs already tested can also be recorded, but owners will need to submit copies of the DNA certificates themselves.
If the owner includes the original registration certificate for the dog (not a copy) then a new registration certificate will be issued, with the DNA result on it, free of charge. Please send any DNA test certificates to Health & Breeder Services, The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, London, W1J 8AB or scan and email copies of the certificates to hbs@thekennelclub.org.uk.