PDF - AHT Annual Review

Annual Review
2015/16
Annual Review
2015/16
Everything the Animal Health Trust does has the
health and welfare of animals at its heart.
We are passionate about horses, dogs and cats and
exist to make life better for generations of animals.
In many parts of the world disease and injury are
far bigger threats to animals than neglect.
Our vets and scientists work around the clock to
combat these.
We have two referral clinics: one for horses, the
other for dogs and cats. Our vets diagnose
problems and find ways of treating them.
In our research laboratories our scientists, who
work with our vets, look for new ways to diagnose
problems, stop them from happening and, where
we can, cure them.
We are committed to education. The knowledge we
gain we share internationally to benefit horses,
dogs and cats all around the world.
All the funds we raise through treating animals in
our clinics go straight back into developing new
diagnostic tests, treatments and vaccines to help
thousands more animals.
Cover photo: Dr
Annamaria Nagy returned
as a clinician in the AHT’s
Equine Clinic in August
2015 after a short spell
working in the Middle East.
We are very
grateful to our investment
managers Vestra Wealth
for supporting the
publication of this Annual
Review.
Animal Health Trust
Lanwades Park, Kentford
Newmarket, Suffolk
CB8 7UU
Telephone: 01638 555648
Email: info@aht.org.uk
Registered charity no. 209642
Incorporated by Royal Charter
www.aht.org.uk
The mission of the Animal Health
Trust is to promote animal welfare
through scientific investigation into
the causes, treatment and
prevention of animal diseases by:
● Developing new knowledge and
techniques for the better
diagnosis, prevention and cure of
disease
● Providing a world-class clinical
referral service
● Communicating our findings to
others.
Nearly all horses, dogs and cats in the UK will have
benefited from our work – that includes your pets
and those of your family and friends.
We are innovative. We are passionate. We are
pioneers. We are the Animal Health Trust.
President’s foreword
HRH The Princess Royal
It is 25 years since I became President of the Animal Health Trust (AHT).
I am now, as I was back then, constantly impressed by the way we
respond to current challenges facing our horses.
During this time, we have been at the forefront of the development of new
diagnostic tests, new treatments, new vaccines and new understanding of
disease and injuries affecting all equines – from elite competition horses to
family ponies. Many of our findings have been rolled out into routine
veterinary practice. By passing on our findings, we help many more horses
than just the referred cases we see each year through our clinics. For
example, every horse vaccinated against equine flu in Europe benefits
directly from AHT research.
In 2015, the AHT continued to take huge steps forward, as it always does.
Our commitment to fighting disease and injury in horses is demonstrated in
our achievements detailed in this review. Some highlights include:
- the conclusion of the largest study ever conducted into Streptococcus
equi (S. equi), the bacteria responsible for the development of Strangles.
The study has resulted in important new information that will be invaluable
in the design of a future new effective vaccine to prevent this devastating
disease. You can read more about this in the review.
- Two new clinicians have joined our Equine Clinic, further expanding the
service we are able to offer to referred horses who need our help.
The work we do at the AHT could not be achieved without the help of
those who realise that the greatest threat to the welfare of horses is injury
and disease. The AHT should be the charity of choice for all owners, vets
and those who work with and enjoy watching, horses in all their many
roles. Please remember, as you enjoy the equestrian disciplines at the Rio
Olympics and Paralympics during the summer, that the AHT has played a
huge part in keeping these animals safe and protected from disease and
injury.
As the charity’s President, I want to thank you for your help to date and
ask that you continue to support our important work: we can then continue
to help countless more animals for many years to come.
Main: HRH The Princess Royal
presents prizes to the winning
connections at the Anne Duchess
of Westminster’s Charity Race
Day at Bangor-on-Dee racecourse
in aid of the AHT.
Left: At an AHT Fellowship
Reception at Buckingham Palace,
HRH The Princess Royal is
introduced to Stephen Masson,
Chief Operating Officer at the
AHT, who joined the charity in
October 2015.
A word from the Chief Executive
Dr Mark Vaudin on 2015
It is almost 75 years since the AHT was founded. In this time, the
charity has, in my opinion, pushed forward the boundaries of
veterinary medicine further than any other organisation. Our
pioneering research has made significant improvements to the health
and welfare of animals in the UK, and across the world.
Treating horses in our expert clinics for lameness and poor
performance issues, as well as serious eye problems, is only the start
of our work to help horses.
All of our equine vets conduct research to better diagnose and treat
the problems seen in the clinics. This research enables owners of
horses, whether they are elite sports horses, family ponies or
something in between, to perform to the best of their capabilities
reducing the risk of injury.
In addition, thanks to our scientific teams, horses and ponies are
benefiting from improved vaccines and expert surveillance helping to
control disease outbreaks such as equine flu, herpesvirus and
Strangles.
Because the AHT exists, and because we are constantly monitoring
equine disease around the world, identifying threats to the British
equine population, we are able to put in place robust plans to head
off infectious disease wherever possible. This enables not only
Thoroughbred and sports horses, but all horses, to remain fit for
function.
Main: Anna Hollis, Oncologist
and Equine Internal Medicine
Specialist, joined our Equine
Clinic in 2015 to focus on
developing our high dose
radiation treatment for common
tumours in horses.
Right: Dr Mark Vaudin, Chief
Executive Officer, with
competitors from the AHT’s
inaugural Charity Race held at
Newmarket’s July Course in June
2015.
Our clinics and laboratory services continued to underpin our vital
clinical research programmes. In 2015, our Small Animal Centre and
Equine Clinic treated more than 3,600 newly referred animals. We
have also added to the expertise within our Equine Clinic now
offering a range of oncology treatments for horses with cancer.
Through our Diagnostic Laboratory Services, we processed more
than 40,300 samples and successfully retained our ISO 17025 status.
The AHT remains your charity. We are here to benefit your animals
and with your support, together we can progress research leading to
better diagnostic tests, treatments, vaccines and other preventative
options.
I hope you enjoy this review and the numerous highlights within it,
and that it leaves you motivated to support our charity, enabling us
to continue the great work we do for horses.
Working with Redwings to fight Strangles
In February 2015, a resident horse at Redwings Horse Sanctuary was confirmed
as having Strangles. The charity is highly experienced in managing and treating
Strangles in rescue cases, and this was the first time in 23 years that the
sanctuary had an outbreak in one of its resident herds. To ensure the swift
diagnosis and containment of this highly contagious disease, they turned to us
for help.
At the height of the outbreak 24 horses at Piggots Farm in Norfolk showed
varying degrees of clinical infection and tested positive for Strangles, many more
required testing and nine quarantine zones were in operation across its Norfolk
farms resulting in expenditure of over £4,000 a week to contain, manage and
treat the disease. Together we combated the disease for eight months, with all
tests being processed through the AHT’s Diagnostic Laboratory Service.
Dr Andrew Waller, Head of Bacteriology at the AHT said, “Through our research
we have a greatly improved understanding of Streptococcus equi, the bacteria
that causes Strangles, which has already enabled us to develop more accurate
diagnostic tests that exploit specific genes and proteins. Thankfully we were able
to quickly test and report positive cases to the Redwings team to assist in
appropriate quarantining of infected horses.” He adds, “Samples taken from the
herd will ultimately help our continued research into eradicating this terrible
disease. A greater understanding of which genes are required by S. equi to cause
disease will inform and direct our work towards the development of an effective
vaccine.”
Supporting Redwings during its Strangles outbreak, Dr Richard Newton, Head of
Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance, said: “The AHT has worked closely with
Redwings for over two decades on better understanding the persistence of
Streptococcus equi. This work has been very important in preventing introduction
of the infection into many populations of horses and ponies around the world.
“The AHT’s scientists and diagnostic laboratory staff worked closely with
Redwings’ vets and staff in devising and conducting laboratory testing protocols
in order to clear this rare incursion of the disease onto Redwings’ own sites, and
we have together learned valuable new lessons. The AHT applauds Redwings
openness in publicising that it had Strangles and its thoroughness and timeliness
in dealing with the problem, returning its population to a Strangles-free status –
we think this is a great example for others in the horse sector.”
Fighting...
Disease in horses
Fighting equine grass sickness
In summer 2015 we issued a final call to recruit horse owners across the UK for our groundbreaking EGS vaccine trial, asking all new premises to enrol before September 2015 in order to
provide an invaluable contribution to this pioneering research.
EGS is a debilitating disease affecting grazing horses, ponies and donkeys, which is almost always
fatal. There is currently no known method for preventing EGS. The EGS vaccine trial, launched in
March 2014, has been designed to evaluate whether vaccination against Clostridium botulinum
type C could be effective in reducing the risk of EGS, in the same way that vaccines are used
successfully to prevent equine tetanus and botulism.
The EGS vaccine trial involves enrolled horses and ponies receiving either a course of the vaccine
or an inactive placebo, as well as an annual booster. The incidence of EGS is monitored throughout
the trial to determine the efficacy of the vaccine, and enrolled horses and ponies are closely
monitored through regular follow-ups for the duration of the trial.
In total, 120 premises and 221 owners are participating in the trial. Results from the study are
expected in 2017.
Fighting Strangles
We took part in the largest study ever conducted into Streptococcus equi (S. equi), the bacteria
responsible for the development of Strangles, which resulted in us stepping closer to designing an
effective vaccine to prevent this devastating disease.
Despite more than 100 years of research, Strangles remains the most frequently diagnosed
infection of horses worldwide. Scientists from the AHT, the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and
the University of St. Andrews joined forces to examine the history and evolution of the disease.
224 samples of S. equi procured from horses around the globe were examined to try and find a
common bacterial ancestor from which modern strains would have developed. Despite the disease
first being described in 1251, the researchers were surprised at the genetic similarity of the
samples and identified a total population replacement at the 19th or early 20th century. This
corresponds to a period when horses from around the world were brought together in global
conflicts including World War I, where an estimated eight million horses died on the battlefield.
The data gathered in this study has enabled us to pinpoint the genes that help the bacteria to
persist, spread and thrive in the horse population. This research provides an unprecedented
opportunity to reduce the impact of, and prevent, Strangles in future generations of horses.
It also sheds new light on the ability of S. equi to adapt to living in a persistent state within its
host whilst still infecting new horses, mirroring the situation with HIV and the bacteria that causes
tuberculosis in humans. The collection of whole-genome sequences for S. equi offers hope for an
effective Strangles vaccine, and also provides a useful model for understanding persistent infection
in humans.
Main: Our EGS vaccine trial
closed recruitment in 2015. We
hope to publish results from the
study in 2017.
Left: Every horse vaccinated
against equine flu in Europe
benefits directly from AHT
research, as we have contributed
to the development or
characterisation of all European
equine flu vaccines. Our
immunology team work closely
with our bacteriology and
virology teams to research equine
diseases such as Strangles and
equine flu to monitor how a
vaccine is working, and, most
importantly, if it is effective.
Fighting...
↓
Injury in horses
Fighting sacroiliac (SI) joint region pain in horses
We undertook pioneering research to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of sacroiliac
(SI) joint region pain and its relationship to lameness in horses. As the first large-scale study of its
kind, the research provides important guidance for both vets and horse owners on the clinical
signs of SI joint region pain and how best to examine it.
Notable results include the observation that clinical signs of SI joint region pain are worse when
horses are ridden, such as bucking in canter and spontaneously breaking from canter. This
highlights the importance of vets examining horses under saddle wherever possible in order to
observe the true severity and breadth of the clinical signs.
Clinical signs of SI joint region pain can be dramatically reduced following diagnostic analgesia, a
safe but non-specific block. Signs suggestive of SI joint region pain include canter quality that is
worse than trot, and bucking and kicking out especially in canter. Bunny-hopping type canter,
being on the forehand and croup high or a stiff, stilted canter, changing legs behind, spontaneously
breaking from canter to trot and being reluctant to canter were also commonly observed, as well
as the tendency to come above the bit. For horses showing the above signs, blocking the SI joint
in a diagnostic investigation could provide crucial answers.
The majority of horses in the study had SI joint region pain and hindlimb lameness. Although clear
improvement in lameness in hand was seen in some horses after removing the source of pain in
the lame limb, ridden exercise highlighted the persistence of another source of pain, which was
sometimes worse after abolishing the lameness. This again emphasises the crucial importance of
ridden exercise in both trot and canter when assessing lameness and poor performance.
Fighting fractures in Thoroughbred racehorses
In 2015, working with University of Glasgow and funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board, we
completed a pilot investigation looking into lateral condylar (LC) fracture of the cannon bone in
Thoroughbred racehorses.
Main: Complete lateral condylar
fracture in a Thoroughbred
racehorse. The arrow shows
where the fracture has split the
cannon bone in two. Our fracture
research aims to decrease the risk
of this type of fracture occurring.
Right: Whether your ride is an
elite competition horse or a
much-loved weekend hack, then
the AHT's Equine Clinic is here to
help with difficult to diagnose
problems. Our research
programmes, both in our clinic
and laboratories, also benefit
horses and ponies of all breeds
and sizes!
LC fracture of the cannon bone is the single most common cause of fatality of horses racing in the
UK, and our investigation aims to decrease the risk of this type of fracture occurring.
Through our research we hope to identify certain features, associated with LC fracture and
identifiable through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), that could be used to help owners and
trainers with monitoring Thoroughbred racehorses in training. Full results of the study are
expected to be published in 2016.
In addition, with funding from the PetPlan Charitable Trust and in collaboration with the University
of East Anglia, our stem cell researchers are undertaking a pilot study, making bone in 3D
constructs from induced pluripotent stem cells to investigate fracture in horses. This work leads on
from earlier research kindly funded by Anne Duchess of Westminster’s Charity and the Paul Mellon
Estate. We hope this study will gain further funding to enable us to compare the properties of
bone constructs for horses with high and low risk of fracture.
Find out more about our research to help horses at www.aht.org.uk/horses
Supporting the fight...
Fundraising in 2015
The AHT is a charity and would not be able to fight disease and injury in animals without the
continued support of people like you. We remain extremely grateful for your generosity.
In 2015, our combined fundraising efforts raised more than £4.41 million. Some highlights from
the year include:
Newmarket Gala Race Day
In June, we hosted our annual fundraising race day at Newmarket’s July Course. More than 250
guests attended, enjoying a champagne reception and sumptuous lunch in our hospitality
marquee.
For the first time we held a Charity Race, which saw seven fearless riders take on the July Course
to raise funds for the AHT. The race was praised by spectators and race officials for its fierce
competition which far exceeded that of a typical Charity Race.
Guests gave generously to our auction and raffle, helping to raise more than £52,000 for the AHT.
UK Equestrian Awards
Equestrian excellence was celebrated at the annual AHT UK Equestrian Awards, held on Thursday
29 October. More than 350 people attended the evening at The Dorchester London Hotel.
Winners on the night included British Horse Society President Martin Clunes and the British Pony
Dressage Team. The night is a key fundraising event in the AHT's calendar and this year raised a
magnificent £120,000 for our vital work.
Anne Duchess of Westminster’s Charity Race Day at Bangor on Dee
In November, we were the benefiting charity of the Anne Duchess of Westminster's Charity Race
Day at Bangor-On-Dee Racecourse. We were delighted to welcome our President, HRH The
Princess Royal to the event.
The AHT has enjoyed many years of support from the Anne Duchess of Westminster's Charity,
including more than £370,000 in funding for our pioneering research into the prevention and
detection of Strangles, and more recently, research into the genetics behind leg fractures in
Thoroughbred racehorses. The Charity Race Day raised a further £36,000 for our research.
Supporter schemes
The AHT depends on regular donations. Knowing that your gift is coming to us on a monthly or
annual basis allows us to make significant progress in our fight against disease and injury, and
plan for the future. We have three supporter schemes offering different levels of involvement: AHT
Friends, Guardians and Fellows. In 2015, we were delighted to see growth in the number of
donors who support our work through committed giving and thus provide vital funding for core
clinical, research and education projects. Regular donors are the lifeblood of the AHT and make
such a considerable difference to the lives of horses, dogs and cats.
We hope many of you will consider leaving your own legacy to support our fight to find better
ways to treat cancer, prevent the spread of infectious diseases and eradicate hereditary diseases.
Without charitable support, none of this would be possible.
For further information and to keep up to date with the progress of our fight, please visit
www.aht.org.uk. Thank you.
Main: Amy Drummond was the winner of the AHT’s inaugural Charity Race held at our Gala Race Day at Newmarket.
Top: The Lord Kirkham CVO, Deputy President of the AHT, presents Martin Clunes with the Special Award at the AHT’s
UK Equestrian Awards 2015. Centre: HRH The Princess Royal peruses the silent auction items at the Anne Duchess of
Westminster’s Charity Race Day at Bangor on Dee.
Bottom - left: Our President, HRH The Princess Royal, and CEO, Dr Mark Vaudin, meet racegoers at the Anne Duchess
of Westminster’s Charity Race Day at Bangor on Dee. Middle: We hosted our biggest Gala Race Day to date at
Newmarket in June, with more than 250 guests attending. Right: Lady Kirkham, Caroline Brash and Lady Harris,
collected the ShowJumping Award at the UK Equestrian Awards on behalf of Scott Brash.
Money matters
The AHT’s financial year
Income
As an independent charity we receive no
government funding. We rely on generous
donations and grants to maintain our position at the
forefront of veterinary progress. Our work benefits
generations of dogs, cats and horses around the
world.
2015 Income - £17.04 million
In 2015 our total income was £17.04 million. The
funds we raised, from charitable sources, amounted
to £4.41 million.
The balance of income came from funding for our
research work (£1.80 million), fees charged for
clinical services (£9.08 million), fees charged for
education services (£0.09 million) and investment
income (£1.65 million).
Every penny we receive is invested back into our
charitable work, enabling us to be a leading
authority in the understanding of diseases in
animals through scientific endeavour and its
application to their welfare.
2015 Expenditure - £14.92 million
Expenditure
In 2015, we spent a total of £14.92 million
achieving our objectives. £3.19 million was spent on
our research. We spent £1.08 million on education
and £9.56 million delivering and developing our
veterinary services.
A further £0.30 million was spent on governance
and other costs.
During 2015, we spent £0.80 million on fundraising.
For every one pound directly invested in fundraising
and generating legacies, we raised £5.50
Clinical services
Research
Legacies &
Fundraising
Investment income
Education
Governance & other
© Cambridge Newspapers/David Johnson
2015 Acknowledgements
Without support the AHT could not continue its vital work. We are grateful to each and every person
who donates time, money or skills to the Trust. We would like to offer special thanks to the following:
Charities, Charitable Trusts and
Foundations
Adrian Swire Charitable Trust
The Alborada Trust
Alice Noakes Memorial Charitable
Trust
The Anna Rosa Forster Charitable
Trust
Anne Duchess of Westminster’s
Charity
Audrey Earle Charitable Trust
Audrey Emma Lamb Charitable Trust
Ava Gardner Trust
Bernard Sunley Charitable Foundation
Beryl Evetts & Robert Luff Anima
l Welfare Trust Limited
Bezvon Charitable Trust
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences
Research Council
Brigadier D V & Mrs H R Phelps
Charitable Settlement
BVA Animal Welfare
Derek Butler Trust
Dogs Trust
C H Harrison Deceased Charitable
Trust
The Cadogan Trust
The Canine Supporters Charity
The Carriejo Charitable Trust
Chailey Charitable Settlement
EBM Charitable Trust
The Earl of Derby Charitable Trust
The Elise Pilkington Charitable Trust
Emily Weircroft Charitable Trust
Equine Grass Sickness Fund
Estate of Paul Mellon
G C Gibson Charitable Trust
The Goldcrest Charitable Trust
Graham Kirkham Foundation Ltd
Peter Harrison Foundation
Hawthorne Charitable Trust
M V Hillhouse Trust
The Horse Trust
Ian Askew Charitable Trust
Ivo Trust
The J and J R Wilson Trust
The J R Asprey Family Charitable
Foundation
The Jayem Charitable Trust
June Stevens Foundation
The Kennel Club
The Kennel Club Charitable Trust
Leslie Mary Carter Charitable Trust
The Lever Trust
Lord Leverhulme’s Charitable Trust
Margaret Giffen Charitable Trust
Marjorie Coote Animal Charity Trust
Morris Animal Foundation
Oakdale Trust
Pauline Bishop Charitable Trust
Payne-Gallwey 1989 Charitable Trust
Pet Plan Charitable Trust
The Polo Charity Trust
The Primrose Trust
Princess Anne’s Charities Trust
Privy Purse Charitable Trust
Roger Vere Foundation
Ruth Smart Foundation
Saddle Research Trust
Sandoz Foundation
Serth and Gates Charitable Trust
The Simon Gibson Charitable Trust
Spurrell Charitable Trust
The Stafford Trust
Stratton No 2 Charitable Fund
The Sylvia Aitken Charitable Trust
Sylvia Waddilove Foundation UK
Together for Animals
Valerie White Memorial Fund
The Waltham Foundation
The Wellcome Trust
Wixamtree Trust
World Horse Welfare
Moulton College
NGRA Meredith Trust
Newbury & District Dog Training
Society
North West Kent Dog Training Club
Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association
Scottie Rescue Emergency Rescue
Southern Afghan Club Trust
Southern Finnish Lapphund Society
Suffolk Horse Society
Therapaws Fun Day
Welsh Pony & Cob Society
Zoe’s Journey UK
Individuals
Mr B Andrewes
Mr & Mrs K Ashley
Mr & Mrs S Aulsebrook
Mr & Mrs J Averill
Mr Gavin Barker
Dr & Mrs W Bechtolsheimer
Ms Margot Bennett Mathieson
Mr M Bevan
Sir Victor Blank
Mr & Mrs R Blausten
Mr & Mrs S Bonny
Mr Pete Brady
Mrs Wendy Brown
Mrs Priscilla Burris
Mr Noel Byrne
Ms Christine Channing
Societies, Clubs and Associations Miss J Charambura
American Cocker Spaniel Club of GB Miss Hilary Charles
American Kennel Club
Mrs Bridget Clark
Bearded Collie Club
Lady Hilda Clarke
Bearded Collie Club of Scotland
Mrs Christine Clarke
Berkeley & District Riding Club
Ms Sue Clifton-Harris
British Dressage
Mr & Mrs P Connell
British Equestrian Federation
Mr Tolly Considine
British Eventing
Mrs Suzanne Corgan
Mrs Linda Costello
British Horse Society
Ms Yvonne Cox & Mr Darren Young
British Manchester Terrier Club
Mrs Barbara Cozens
British Showjumping
British Veterinary Nursing Association Mr H H R Crawshay
Miss Tracey Davies
Burghley Horse Trials
Sir Harry & Lady Djanogly
Ely & District Dog Training Club
Mr
& Mrs A Drummond
Ipswich Dog Training Club
Mr
& Mrs B Dutson
Italian Spinone Club of GB
Mrs Daphne Eagle
Flatcoated Retriever Society RRWS
Miss P Ebsary
Hungarian Vizsla Club
Mr Steve Elsom
Keeshond Club
Miss
J Errington
Lancashire Heeler Association
Mrs Patricia Everitt
The Large Munsterlander Club
The Rt Hon the Lord & Lady
Midland & West of England Great
Fairhaven KstJ JP DL
Dane Club
Miss Dawn Fido
Mrs Lesley Field
AHT Friends
Mr G M Foljambe
Mr & Mrs T Gallagher
Miss Carole Gent
Lady Victoria Getty
Mr John Gildersleeve
Miss Bryony Gillespie
Miss Clare Goodwin
Mr Rae Guest
Mrs Maggie Hales
Mrs Giselle Hampton
Mrs N Hardy
Mr Martin Harris
Lord & Lady Harris of Peckham
Mr C B Hart
Sir Jack Harvie
Mrs Elizabeth Heath
Miss Elizabeth Hewitt
Mrs J M Higgs
Mr John Holmes
Ms Victoria Holt
Dr I Hughes-Hallett
Mr & Mrs A Higgins
Mrs Janet Ingram
Ms Yvonne Jacques
Mr & Mrs D James
Mr Andrew Jones
Dr Mary Jones
Mr & Mrs P Jones
Ms Chris Keate
Dr G & Mrs S Keenay
Mrs Niki Keeler
Mr Paul Kerridge
Mr Khewal Kesur
Mr M Kingscote
The Lord & Lady Kirkham CVO
Mr R Knox
Mrs J Laken
Mr Christian Landolt
Mr Richard Lee
Miss Penny Lindop
Mrs Jean Loughborough
Dr M R Lynch
Mrs Daphne MacDougall
Miss Rebecca Mackie
Mr John Masters
Mrs Jayne May
Mr Jon May
Mrs A McGregor
Mr & Mrs P Meagher
Mr Robin Miller
Mrs Matilda Mills
Lady Milnes-Coates
Mr Rob Mirsky
Miss Louise Moody
Professor Kevin Morley
Mrs Anne Norman
Miss Gladys Ogilvy Shepherd
Mr Anthony Oppenheimer
Mr David Ord
Mr & Mrs J Panayiotou
Mr Steven Parkyn
Mrs Anne Pharaoh
Mr P A Philipps
Mr Richard Phillips
Mr Mervyn Philpott
Miss A Popkin
Miss Kirsten Rausing
Mr D J Rawlins
Mr Martin Reed
Mr Charles Roach
Mr & Mrs P Roberts
Mr G Robinson
Mrs Anne Rodgers
Mrs Jill Rogers
Kerry & Colleen Salmon
Mr Jeremy Seel
Mr Tom Scott
Mr & Mrs S Shore
Mrs A Shore
Sir Michael Smurfit
Sir John Spurling OBE
Mrs Jacqueline Stanhope
Mr Anthony Stevens
Mr David Stoddart
Mrs Pat Tempest
Mr Jon Terry & Mrs Anita Hope
Mr Giles Thompson
Mr Mike Tucker
Mrs Tuxworth
The Lord & Lady Vestey SRN
Mr Kees Visser
Sir Donald Walters
Miss Mia Watkins
Mr Adam Waterworth
Mr Peter Walwyn
Miss June Waylen
Mr & Mrs H Wilson
Mr & Mrs J Whalley
Mr Tony Woodburn
Miss Rebecca Woods
Baroness Worley of Granard
Mr & Mrs G Wylie
Business Supporters
Abingdon Flooring LtdAnthony
Woodburn Ltd
Associated Weavers
J Barbour & Sons Ltd
Balta Group
Bedford Lodge Hotel
Bet Solutions International
Carbonis
Clive Graham Associates Ltd
Dolphin International Travel
The Dorchester Hotel
Duralock Ltd
Harris Ventures Ltd
Harvey Spack Field
Henry Schein Animal Health
Hill’s Pet Nutrition Ltd
Horse & Country TV
IVC Group
KPMG LLP
Lloyds Bank
Marshall Maserati
Palmerston Veterinary Group
Petplan Equine Ltd
Pfizer Animal Health Ltd
Royal Bank of Canada
RSM UK
Russell Developments
South Essex Insurance Brokers
Schering Plough
Shore Capital
Tangent Office Furniture
Tapi Carpets & Floors
Taylor Vinters
Vestra Wealth
Vetoquinol
Weatherbys Group Ltd
Zoetis
Thoroughbred Industry
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Betfair.com
British Horseracing Authority
Dunchurch Lodge Stud Company
Horserace Betting Levy Board
Japan Racing Association
The Jockey Club
Lanwades Stud
Newmarket Racecourses
Racehorse Owners Association
Tattersalls Ltd
The Racing Post
Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association
Everything the Animal Health Trust does has the
health and welfare of animals at its heart.
We are passionate about dogs, cats and horses and
exist to make life better for generations of animals.
In many parts of the world disease and injury are
far bigger threats to animals than neglect.
Our vets and scientists work around the clock to
combat these.
We have two referral clinics: one for horses, the
other for dogs and cats. Our vets diagnose
problems and find ways of treating them.
In our research laboratories our scientists, who
work with our vets, look for new ways to diagnose
problems, stop them from happening and, where
we can, cure them.
We are committed to education. The knowledge we
gain we share internationally to benefit dogs, cats
and horses all around the world.
All the funds we raise through treating animals in
our clinics go straight back into developing new
diagnostic tests, treatments and vaccines to help
thousands more animals.
Cover photo: Small
animal oncologist, Sara
Verganti, with Piper who
belongs to one of our
anaesthesia team.
We are very
grateful to our investment
managers Vestra Wealth
for supporting the
publication of this Annual
Review.
Animal Health Trust
Lanwades Park, Kentford
Newmarket, Suffolk
CB8 7UU
Telephone: 01638 555648
Email: info@aht.org.uk
Registered charity no. 209642
Incorporated by Royal Charter
www.aht.org.uk
The mission of the Animal Health
Trust is to promote animal welfare
through scientific investigation into
the causes, treatment and
prevention of animal diseases by:
● Developing new knowledge and
techniques for the better
diagnosis, prevention and cure of
disease
● Providing a world-class clinical
referral service
● Communicating our findings to
others.
Nearly all dogs, cats and horses in the UK will have
benefited from our work – that includes your pets
and those of your family and friends.
We are innovative. We are passionate. We are
pioneers. We are the Animal Health Trust.
President’s foreword
HRH The Princess Royal
It is 25 years since I became President of the Animal Health Trust (AHT).
I am now, as I was back then, constantly impressed by the way we
respond to current challenges facing our dogs and cats.
During this time, we have been at the forefront of the development of new
diagnostic tests, new treatments, new vaccines and new understanding of
diseases affecting all dogs and cats. Many of our findings have been rolled
out into routine veterinary practice. By passing on our findings, we help far
more animals than the 3,500 specially referred cases we see each year
through the small animal clinic. In fact, it is likely that nearly all dog and
cats in the UK will have benefited in some way by our work, through direct
contact or through the sharing of our knowledge.
In 2015, the AHT continued to take huge steps forward, as it always does.
Our commitment to fighting disease and injury in dogs and cats is
demonstrated in our achievements detailed in this review. Some highlights
include:
- A new collaboration between our veterinary ophthalmology team and
geneticists who embarked on a six-year study to investigate the genetics of
glaucoma. The study aims to collect DNA samples from clear and affected
dogs so that the DNA mutations associated with glaucoma can be
identified. The long-term aim is to develop DNA tests for the condition
which could save thousands of dogs from suffering from this painful and
blinding condition and losing their eyes.
- The Kennel Club Cancer Centre, which I opened in 2012, continues to go
from strength to strength, treating twice as many patients in 2015 as we
did in 2014, including more than 35 breeds of dog with at least 20 different
types of cancer. Across our other small animal clinical disciplines, we have
also seen an increase in demand for our services with more animals than
ever before needing our help. To this end, we are keen to extend our small
animal hospital to create a new dog ward, new consulting rooms and a new
ultrasound room among other much needed facilities. The charity is
currently fundraising to make these plans a reality.
As the charity’s President, I want to thank you for your support to date and
ask that you continue to support our important work: we can then continue
to help countless more animals for many years to come.
Main: HRH The Princess Royal
meets Martin and Shirley Spurrell,
of the Spurrell Charitable Trust at
Buckingham Palace during an
AHT Fellowship Reception.
Left: HRH The Princess Royal
hosts and attends a number of
fundraising events for the AHT
each year at the Royal Palaces, in
London and across the UK.
A word from the Chief Executive
Dr Mark Vaudin on 2015
It is almost 75 years since the AHT was founded. In this time, the
charity has, in my opinion, pushed forward the boundaries on
veterinary medicine further than any other organisation. Our
pioneering research has made significant improvements to the health
and welfare of animals in the UK, and across the world.
In 2015, we received particular recognition for our work on canine
genetics. Dr Cathryn Mellersh, our Head of Canine Genetics, was
presented with the prestigious International Canine Health Award, by
the Kennel Club Charitable Trust and Metro Bank.
The award recognises her research which has significantly improved
our understanding of inherited diseases in purebred dogs and has led
to the development of numerous DNA tests to help dog breeders
improve the lives of future generations of dogs.
The award was presented at the International Conference on
Advances in Canine and Feline Genomics and Inherited Disease,
which, in 2015, was organised by the Animal Health Trust. This
International Conference, occurring every two years and alternating
between Europe and the United States, attracted almost 170 of the
world’s leading geneticists. More than 100 abstracts were submitted,
with the Scientific Committee selecting 40 for oral presentations
given over the five days of the Conference.
Main: Dr Mark Vaudin, Chief
Executive Officer of the AHT, with
Pea, a Jack Russell-Collie cross,
at the Greyhound Extravaganza,
held at Lanwades Park - home of
the Animal Health Trust.
Right: Dr Cathryn Mellersh with
her International Canine Health
Award, presented by Mike
Townsend of the Kennel Club
Charitable Trust and Vernon Hill
of MetroBank.
Our clinics and laboratory services continued to underpin our vital
clinical research programmes. In 2015, our Small Animal Centre and
Equine Clinic treated more than 3,600 newly referred animals. Our
DNA testing service offered five new tests and produced test results
for more than 9,500 samples. We now offer DNA health tests for
more than 60 breeds of dog. Through our Diagnostic Laboratory
Services, we processed more than 40,300 samples and successfully
retained our ISO 17025 status.
The AHT remains your charity. We are here to benefit your pets and
with your support, together we can progress research leading to
better diagnostic tests, treatments, vaccines and other preventative
options.
I hope you enjoy this review and the numerous highlights within it,
and that it leaves you motivated to support our charity, enabling us
to continue the great work we do for dogs and cats.
Working with Dogs Trust to fight glaucoma
Primary glaucoma, linked to the inherited eye abnormality goniodysgenesis, is a
problem which affects an estimated 1,500 dogs each year; with the majority
having to have both eyes removed. The AHT wants to try and prevent this from
happening. In 2015, we started a new project, generously funded by Dogs Trust,
to better understand this condition, which breeds are affected, and the genetics
involved.
By collecting DNA samples from dogs diagnosed with glaucoma, dogs diagnosed
with goniodysgenesis and dogs over the age of five clear of goniodysgenesis, our
geneticists hope to make significant steps towards identifying the mutation(s)
responsible for goniodysgenesis and developing a DNA test to identify which dogs
might be at risk of developing glaucoma and of passing those genes on to their
offspring.
The majority of breeds we’re investigating, including Golden Retrievers, Border
Collies and Cocker Spaniels, are on the BVA/KC/ISDS eye scheme for hereditary
eye diseases which advises screening for goniodysgenesis before breeding.
However, evidence shows that goniodysgenesis can be progressive with age, so
screening a young dog may not be conclusive enough.
The development of a genetic test would have a much greater impact on reducing
the number of dogs affected by glaucoma in the future.
More information on this research and the breeds affected can be found at
www.aht.org.uk/glaucoma
Fighting...
Disease and injury in dogs and cats
Fighting epilepsy in dogs and cats
Epilepsy is one of the most common diseases diagnosed in dogs and cats. However, despite a vast
amount of research, a lack of standardisation in definitions and neuroimaging used in research
have led to a lack of consistency in research practices and understanding.
This has made drawing comparisons from various research projects difficult, and has restricted the
ability of pet owners and vets to communicate adequately about pet epilepsy.
As part of the International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force (IVETF), made up of 26 veterinary
practitioner, neuropharmacology, neuropathology and neurology experts from around the world,
we aim to help overcome this issue by standardising epilepsy research, diagnosis and treatment
for the first time in veterinary medicine.
To date the task force has published seven consensus statements outlining a common language to
be used in the chain of care of canine and feline epilepsy. This includes guidelines to improve care
for dogs and cats being treated for epilepsy and a detailed framework and standards for future
research and trials, to help push epilepsy research and understanding forward. The consensus
statements outline a number of recommendations on all aspects of the condition.
Our work, as a member of the Task Force, should help the veterinary profession advance epilepsy
treatment practices much more effectively, resulting in better care for many animals affected by
epilepsy.
Fighting cancer in dogs
We are one of just a few veterinary referral centres in the UK to offer all three treatment
modalities for cancer: surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We have been offering
radiotherapy treatment to dogs with cancer since 2012.
We believe there are common misconceptions about radiotherapy treatment in dogs among dog
owners so in 2015, we undertook a study to ascertain how owners felt about the quality of life
their dog had during and after radiotherapy.
We spoke with a number of owners whose dogs we had treated and found that radiotherapy was
well tolerated by owners and dogs. In fact, 86% of those asked were happy that they had pursued
radiotherapy, 93% would choose it as a treatment option again and 91% would recommend
radiotherapy treatment for dogs to their friends.
Main: Dr Luisa Risio, Head of
Neurology, is the AHT’s
representative on the
International Epilepsy Task Force.
We have widely publicised the results of the study within the veterinary profession. One of our
veterinary team presented the results at the British Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress
in 2015 and was awarded a Clinical Abstract Award in recognition of the research.
Left: Dr Davide Berlato, Head of
Oncology, prepares a patient for
radiotherapy treatment. In 2015,
we delivered 1,325 fractions of
radiotherapy treating twice as
many patients than in 2014. We
treated more than 35 breeds of
dog with 20 different types of
cancer, five cats and also a horse
with external beam radiation.
By widely publicising our clinical research, we enable vets in general practice to feel confident
referring animals for radiotherapy treatment, and in allaying concerns of worried owners.
Fighting...
Disease and injury in dogs and cats
Fighting inherited disease in dogs
Our inherited disease research aims to identify genetic mutations and develop DNA tests that
owners and breeders can use, over time, to help eradicate genetic disease within their dogs.
Primary glaucoma is an inherited canine condition and is subdivided into two types: closed
angle glaucoma (PCAG) and POAG. In both forms glaucoma results from reduced drainage of fluid
within the eye, causing a build-up of pressure which, in turn, leads to pain and blindness.
Routine examination of three Basset Hounds by AHT vet, James Oliver, as part of research
undertaken for his PhD project into canine glaucoma, uncovered a condition never previously
recorded within the breed – primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).
The discovery of POAG within the breed is important. It appears to be an emerging disease in the
Basset Hound, so scientists in the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the AHT, working with James,
have been able to discover the genetic mutation and develop a DNA test that means breeders
should be able to nip this form of glaucoma in the bud before it becomes a wide-spread problem.
The test was launched less than a year after POAG was first discovered in the breed.
Sensory neuropathy (SN) is a severe neurological disease affecting young Border Collies for
which there is no treatment. Affected dogs progressively lose the sensation in their limbs due to
the degeneration of sensory and motor nerve cells and have to be euthanised.
Scientists at the AHT have been researching the genetic basis of this disease in the Border Collie
since two affected dogs were diagnosed by neurologists in the AHT’s Small Animal Centre,
providing DNA samples to begin a genetic investigation. A third DNA sample was provided from the
University of Glasgow.
Main: James Oliver, Head of
Ophthalmology and PhD Student,
is pictured with Monty, left, the
first Basset Hound discovered
with POAG, owned by Su Jones,
and right are her girls: Lexi and
Lizzy, who are both clear of the
disease.
Right: We also developed and
launched a DNA test for macular
corneal dystrophy (MCD) in
Labradors, the UK’s most popular
breed. MCD is a hereditary eye
disease which causes severe
visual impairment in affected
dogs.
The three samples were compared to the DNA of 170 Border Collies whose DNA has been
submitted to the AHT from owners to aid its epilepsy research in the Border Collie. This extensive
bank of DNA was crucial in enabling us to identify which chromosome contained the genetic
mutation for SN as quickly as possible. Once this was identified the chromosome was sequenced to
find the faulty gene responsible for SN.
Once the mutation had been found we worked in collaboration with the University of Glasgow and
the University of Missouri to test DNA from a total of 11 affected dogs, all of which were confirmed
to have two copies of the mutation identified by scientists at the AHT. A DNA test was developed
and launched in April 2015.
These breakthrough discoveries demonstrate how vets and scientists at the AHT are able to work
together to investigate health conditions observed in patients and to collaborate with other
research institutions to further research projects.
DNA Tests for SN in Border Collies and POAG in Basset Hounds are among a number of health
tests available to owners through the AHT’s DNA Testing webshop at www.ahtdnatesting.co.uk
Supporting the fight...
Fundraising in 2015
The AHT is a charity and would not be able to fight disease and injury in animals without the
continued support of people like you. We remain extremely grateful for your generosity.
In 2015, our combined fundraising efforts raised more than £4.41 million. Some highlights for the
year include:
Special appeals
Our major appeal this year raised substantial funds to assist our research into cancer in animals.
With one in four dogs and one in six cats being diagnosed with cancer at some point in their
lifetime, our research into this pernicious disease aims to improve diagnosis, treatment and
prevention of animal cancers. Thanks to generous donations, we were also able to purchase a
Retinal Camera which has greatly assisted our glaucoma research, helped in veterinary training
and in monitoring ophthalmic cases in our clinics.
Zoe’s Journey UK
In January 2015, we received a call from Jayne May telling us that her 14-year old Golden
Retriever, Zoe, had been given the all clear from lymphoma. Jayne was so moved by Zoe’s
experience that she established Zoe’s Journey UK, a group of more than 600 Golden Retriever
lovers who have united to fight cancer in their beloved pets. In just over a year, the group has
raised more than £50,000 and they show no signs of slowing down. Sadly, Zoe, Jayne’s inspiration
behind the campaign, passed away of old age in April 2016. She was almost 15 years old and free
from cancer. Zoe remains the inspiration for many and leaves a lasting legacy behind her - helping
to improve the lives of several other dogs in this important fight against cancer in dogs.
Personal challenges
In 2015, several of our amazing supporters undertook amazing challenges to raise funds for the
AHT. These include:
- Fergus the dog, and his owners, Debbie and Dave, completed the 192 miles Coast to Coast Walk
across the country in 18 days, raising more than £1,000 for the AHT
- Six intrepid runners took on the 2015 London Marathon as part of Team AHT. By pounding the
streets of London, they raised more than £7,000 for our vital work
- On a blustery day in October, Joanne Herbert arranged a doggy beach walk in Skegness in
memory of her dog, Meg, who was lost to Cushing’s Disease. The simple event raised more than
£1,700 for the AHT.
Main: Phenomenal fundraisers, Zoe’s Journey UK! Andrew Simmonds, the AHT’s Head of Individual Giving & Trusts, presents
a commemorative plaque to ZJUK founder Jayne May.
Top - left: Vet, Ben Blacklock ran the London Marathon for the AHT in 2015. At the time he was working within our
ophthalmology team. Middle: Fergus, an eight-year-old Welsh Springer Spaniel, completed the Coast to Coast Walk with his
owners to raise vital funds for the AHT. Right: Could you organise a dog-friendly event to raise funds for the AHT?
Centre: Will you consider leaving your own legacy by remembering the AHT in your will? Bottom: Kate Flory, another of our
brave London Marathon runners. Her brother, Matt, ran the Marathon for us in 2016!
Lasting legacies
Leaving a gift to the AHT in your Will is a lasting way to help the companion animals who so enrich
our lives. Thanks to the foresight of those who remember the AHT in this way, we have trained
veterinary specialists of the future, pioneered new treatments, gained new understanding of
methods to prevent disease, and enabled thousands of animals to live healthy, happy lives. Gifts in
Wills allow us to plan for the future, guaranteeing that the animals we care about have the best
chance of fighting disease and injury. In 2015, we gratefully received more than £2.6 million from
gifts in Wills – providing half of the AHT’s annual fundraising income.
We hope you will continue to support our fight to find better ways to treat illnesses including
cancer, prevent the spread of infectious diseases and eradicate hereditary diseases. Without you,
none of this would be possible.
For further information and to keep up to date with the progress of our fight, please visit
www.aht.org.uk. Thank you.
Money matters
The AHT’s financial year
Income
As an independent charity we receive no
government funding. We rely on generous
donations and grants to maintain our position at the
forefront of veterinary progress. Our work benefits
generations of dogs, cats and horses around the
world.
2015 Income - £17.04 million
In 2015 our total income was £17.04 million. The
funds we raised, from charitable sources, amounted
to £4.41 million.
The balance of income came from funding for our
research work (£1.80 million), fees charged for
clinical services (£9.08 million), fees charged for
education services (£0.09 million) and investment
income (£1.65 million).
Every penny we receive is invested back into our
charitable work, enabling us to be a leading
authority in the understanding of diseases in
animals through scientific endeavour and its
application to their welfare.
2015 Expenditure - £14.92 million
Expenditure
In 2015, we spent a total of £14.92 million
achieving our objectives. £3.19 million was spent on
our research. We spent £1.08 million on education
and £9.56 million delivering and developing our
veterinary services.
A further £0.30 million was spent on governance
and other costs.
During 2015, we spent £0.80 million on fundraising.
For every one pound directly invested in fundraising
and generating legacies, we raised £5.50
Clinical services
Research
Legacies &
Fundraising
Investment income
Education
Governance & other
Annual Review
2015/16
Annual Review
2015/16