Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, MP, and I met with Chairman of the KC, Steve Dean and Breeder Services Manager, Bill Lambert. A wide ranging discussion took place in which the KC rejected the idea of awarding a Champion of Health at dog shows and also the idea that all health tests listed on the Assured Breeder Scheme should be ‘required’ rather than ‘recommended’. The KC will not make the BVA/KC CMSM scheme ‘required’ on the grounds that it isn’t robust enough, nor was it prepared to exert any pressure on Cavaliers breeders to use the scheme. The KC does not accept the findings of the published paper on the Prevalence of CMSM, ie that 70% of Cavaliers have SM by the age of 6 years. DNA tests for Episodic Falling Syndrome and Dry Eye Curly Coat would be added to the ABS as recommended tests for Cavaliers.
