Tufts’ conference explores managing genetic disorders in pets

The latest research on cat and dog genetics—and its related impact on health and breeding—will be presented by more than a dozen world-renowned experts at a two-day conference on September 27-29 in Boston, Mass.

Led by Jerold S. Bell, D.V.M., a clinical associate professor in the department of clinical sciences at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, the conference will include sessions on genetic disorders, management of genetic diseases, canine hip dysplasia, and population genetics of breeds.

“There is a growing interest in pet genetics and related breeding issues, but the information available comes from a variety of sources and not all of them are credible,” said Bell, also the director of the clinical veterinary genetics course at the Cummings School. “This is an opportunity to learn from top experts about the latest advances in the field.”

Veterinarians, technicians, researchers, and cat and dog breeders/enthusiasts are invited to attend the conference. In addition to Bell’s presentations on breed evolution and genetic testing, Tufts faculty member Elizabeth McNiel, D.V.M., will be leading a session on hereditary gastric cancer in dogs.

The conference agenda also includes presentations by Dr. Ake Hedhammar of the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Dr. Greg Keller of Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Grégoire Leroy, Ph.D., of the Génétique Animale et Biologie Intégrative in France, and Elaine Ostrander, Ph.D., of the National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health.

The event is sponsored by Nestlé Purina PetCare, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Illumina, Veterinary Information Network, AKC Canine Health Foundation, and Winn Feline Foundation.

For more information or to register, please visit http://www.tufts.edu/vet/ce/events/20130927.html  or call the Office of Continuing Education at (508) 887-4723.