Fell pony syndrome being targeted by scientists
Scientists are undertaking ground-breaking research into a fatal genetic defect that has been killing Fell ponies for generations.
The Animal Health Trust at Newmarket and Liverpool University has received £114,000 of funding from the Horse Trust to find a way to eliminate Fell pony syndrome.
Fell pony syndrome is a genetic defect that leads to foals being born with a severe immune deficiency. Barely surviving for weeks, the foals catch myriad diseases and ailments for which they have no defence.
Dr June Swinburne, who is leading the project said: “Fell pony syndrome is probably the result of in-breeding around the Second World War, when there were few breeding lines.”
Following the research, Dr Swinburne says breeders will be able to test whether their pony is a carrier.
“Once we’ve identified the genetic fault, we will be able to prevent diseased foals being born,” she said.
The Fell Pony Society will be working with the scientists.
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Chairman Mary Longsdon said: “Fell pony syndrome is extremely nasty. The foals die before your eyes and there’s nothing you can do.”
Fell ponies live in semi-feral herds, but are all registered and owned. They are designated as “at risk” by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, with less than 1,500 breeding mares globally.
www.fellponysociety.org
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