Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) DNA Testing
BATWK CA Testing Programme
Thank you for requesting Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) DNA testing through the British Association of True Working Kelpies (BATWK).
Please read the instructions below carefully before collecting your dog’s DNA sample.
What You’ll Need
Two clean cotton buds (standard shop-bought cotton buds are suitable)
One paper envelope for each dog being tested
A pen to clearly label each sample
Important: Wash your hands thoroughly before collecting each sample and between dogs to avoid cross-contamination.
Collecting the DNA Sample
Step 1
Using the first cotton bud, gently rub the inside of your dog’s cheeks and along the gums for at least 30 seconds.
The cotton bud should appear slightly dirty once enough cheek cells have been collected.
Repeat using the opposite end of the same cotton bud.
Step 2
Repeat the process using a second clean cotton bud.
Each dog should therefore have two swabs submitted.
Drying the Samples
Place both swabs inside a clean paper envelope.
Leave the envelope open for at least six hours to allow the swabs to dry completely.
Please do not use plastic or zip-lock bags, as they trap moisture and may damage the DNA sample.
Labelling Your Samples
Please clearly write the following information on each individual envelope:
Registered Name
BATWK or WKC Registration Number
Microchip Number
Posting Your Samples
Please send your completed samples to:
James Beattie
BATWK c/o James Beattie
Woodside Cottage
Raitloan
Nairn
Highland
IV12 5SA
Cost
The discounted BATWK member price is:
£35 per dog
This includes testing for both recognised forms of Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA).
Please note that slight variations in price may occasionally occur due to exchange rate fluctuations.
BATWK covers the cost of forwarding samples to the Australian laboratory.
Payment
Please make payment by bank transfer using your name followed by “CA” as the payment reference.
British Association of True Working Kelpies
Sort Code: 30-91-91
Account Number: 44256460
Alternatively, you may enclose a cheque made payable to BATWK with your samples.
Payment must be received before the submission deadline.
Results
Samples are submitted to the laboratory in Australia in scheduled batches.
Once BATWK receives your results, they will be forwarded to you as soon as possible.
We encourage all members to record their dog’s CA status on the BATWK database to support responsible breeding and help build valuable health records for the Working Kelpie population.
If you have any questions about the testing process, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.