Following the announcement of the success in the research into ‘the syndrome’, there are many issues that need careful consideration. Firstly, the researchers from The Animal Health Trust, Newmarket and The University of Liverpool, Leahurst deserve the hearty congratulations and thanks from all those associated with Fell and Dales ponies. Their dedicated, careful work has brought a result that will benefit all and will strengthen the health of both breeds. This must be welcomed as a major breakthrough in the welfare of the foals. The other pleasing aspect is that it is proposed to rename the condition: Foal Immunodeficiency Syndrome (FIS) thereby dropping the association with any particular breed.
The identification of the site of the genetic defect means that a test for the condition is now possible and it has been announced that from 1st February 2010 the Animal Health Trust will be able to accept samples from ponies for testing. From the analysis of the DNA, the results for adult ponies will differentiate between clear and carrier ponies and in foals will identify clear, carrier or affected foals. As everyone knows, up until this time, identifying affected foals was a difficult process. It relied on a foal showing signs of anaemia, infection and ill thrift. Once these had progressed enough, with the support of blood tests and a failure to respond to treatment, a decision would be made about the future of the foals. This was often a lengthy process filled with doubts and one with obvious welfare concerns. The test will allow this to proceed much more swiftly and to identify the status of the foal with certainty. This will be a great comfort to those who have mares that are pregnant and due to foal next spring and summer.
It is proposed to hold a meeting for all interested society members to put forward some illustrations of how it is thought that the test will help to give breeding guidance. As well as council members, a panel of suitably qualified people will be there to answer your questions.
We are told that the samples will most likely be hair plucked from the mane, which is not invasive and will pose no threat to pregnant mares. The timing of the announcement gives plenty of time for the tests to be run before foaling begins in 2010. The identification of carrier mares will allow breeders to form a plan regarding the unborn foal and the subsequent choice of stallion and mare combination.
The price of the test has not been determined although it is understood that funding is being sought to help reduce the set up costs of the test for the first year. An announcement will be made as soon as the information is available.
The Fell Pony Society will be holding an open meeting for members to discuss these issues in January and will be writing to all members about this in the near future.