JOINT HEALTH GROUP

The Joint Health Group was formed in 1994 to investigate any conditions causing concern in the breed, and is made up of delegates from all four Welsh Springer Spaniel Clubs :- The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club, Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of South Wales, North of England Welsh Springer Spaniel Club and the South Eastern Welsh Springer Spaniel Club.

Two delegates from each Club together with a trustee meet approximately three times a year. The meeting is chaired by an independent chairman Dr. Jeff Sampson, a leading Canine Geneticist.

All reported health matters within the breed and any other health issues are discussed and monitored and delegates report back to their respective committee’s.

The three conditions that are looked at in depth are Epilepsy, Glaucoma, and Hip Dysplasia.

Epilepsy

Valuable work on Primary Epilepsy is currently being undertaken by the Animal Health Trust, towards the possible development of a DNA test for this condition. Blood samples are being collected and stored for use in the future to try and identify a marker for the genes involved. Samples from affected dogs and their families are particularly useful and stored without charge in order to assist this research.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma has been studied by Dr. Keith Barnett and Mrs. Beverly Cottrell for a number of years. A new gonioscopy lens was purchased by the JHG and Mrs Cottrell regularly attends the Breed Championship Shows to carry out eye testing sessions.

Hip Dysplasia

The breed average total score is 19. The JHG continue to monitor this condition and have requested that all x-ray plates are sent to the BVA for scoring, as only sending ‘good’ ones gives a false average.

Many vets are able to hip x-ray under the KC/BVA scheme.

If any member wants to submit anything for discussion please contact either delegate Mrs. Jan Janes, Mrs Jan Rees or the Trustee ( Club Secretary) Mrs Ann Jones.

Fact sheets for all these conditions are currently being updated and will be available via a link shortly.