As part of our CGC Friends scheme, we launched a special yearly award, sponsored by Canine Genetic Testing (CAGT) – the Friends of the CGC Health and Welfare Award. All friends can nominate anybody that they know personally, or know of, that makes a positive impact on the health and/or welfare of dogs. This year’s winner was announced at our recent Research Day as Kathryne Wrigley.
On handing out the award, Cathryn had these kind words to say about Kathryne and all the hard work she has done for the Gordon Setter over many years.
I have worked with Kathryne for many years, ever since late-onset PRA was first recognised in Gordon Setters. Kathryne worked very closely with the Canine Genetics Centre, recruiting DNA from affected dogs and arranging for older dogs to have their eyes examined so that they could qualify as unaffected controls. Without her tireless efforts the research would have taken a lot longer than it did. And she also played a vital role in educating breeders regarding the importance of breeding with carriers in the early stage following the launch of the DNA test, so that genetic diversity can be protected – especially important in a numerically small breed such as the Gordon Setter. Kathryne’s sensible, objective and conscientious approach to health means that she is a joy to collaborate with, and Gordon Setters are very lucky to have her as their breed health co-ordinator.
Kathryne was nominated a total of 6 times and was our clear winner for 2025. Here are some of the reasons she was nominated…
- The hard work she does for Gordon Setters
- Devoted Vet nurse/Gordon Setter owner. Is the breed health Co-ordinator and nothing ever too much trouble for her
- Kathryne devotes every hour of every day to the welfare of animals both in her job as a veterinary nurse, Gordon setter breeder and Gordon Setter breed health representative. She is aways at the end of a phone, text, email to help and answer any queries or issues.
- No matter how tired she maybe from her demanding job, she always has a cheery smile for us.
- I cannot think of anyone better to receive this award. She goes above and beyond her position as Breed health Co-ordinator to help us as Gordon setter breeders, she spends a lot of her free time creating & researching for our health reports and is always on hand to help.
- Absolutely wonderful lady who has helped a lot of us out with very specific problems with our dogs, using her own time and energy. Always has a smile for everyone and is productive in the canine health and wellbeing industry.
Congratulations to Kathryne and all the other nominees for 2025…
Mandy Addington ~ Joanna Bowman ~ Pam Johnson~ Jane Ladlow ~ Lesley McFadyen ~ Gemma Rowe ~ Jane Saunders ~ BC and WSD fitting database
