The Pastoral Breeds Health Foundation originally began as the CEA Working Group.

Following the AGM of the Border Collie Club of Great Britain (BCCGB) in February 1999, the new committee started a fund and an initiative to raise money to go towards research into finding a genetic test to identify animals which suffer from, or carry the condition Collie Eye Anomaly ('CEA'). The fund started with a generous donation from one committee member.

It was always apparent that the problem presented by CEA was much bigger than one club and, indeed, much bigger than one breed since CEA affects not only Border Collies but also Rough Collies, Smooth Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs and Lancashire Heelers. Professor Peter Bedford at the Royal College of Veterinary Science had carried out research in the UK, and other countries were known to be involved in research into the disease.

Fundraising continued on behalf of the BCCGB initiative and by October 2000, the fund stood at almost £20,000.  At the same time, steps were being taken to enlist the active support of other bodies and in October 2000 the CEA Working Group was formed. The group contained representatives from all the registered Border Collie Breed Societies, the International Sheep Dog Society and Shetland Sheep Dog Societies. Dr Jeff Samson, Genetics Co-ordinator to the Kennel Club sat as an advisor.

Objectives

The CEA Working Group was formed with the objective to promote research into genetically transmitted conditions and diseases affecting Border Collies and related breeds.

Although it is a representative body, the CEA Working Group is autonomous in that it will hold monies collected and will direct money towards specific approved research projects.

Targets

The first and prime target was CEA and the group were in discussion with the scientific community to identify a research project that would concentrate on finding a genetic test for the condition.

Health surveys conducted in the UK & USA were analysed to identify further areas of concern.

The 'Pastoral Breeds Health Foundation'

After the DNA test for CEA became widely available, it was clear to the participating Breed Clubs and Societies that the name 'CEA Working Group' needed to be re-thought.

The title of 'Pastoral Breeds Health Foundation' was decided upon because of the original objective which was, and still is, to promote research into genetically transmitted conditions and diseases affecting Border Collies and related breeds.

The current Officers of the P B H F are:

Chairman:            Kathie Kinton  

Vice Chairman:   Bob Tunnicliff         

Treasurer:             Marion Withers

Secretary: