HEALTH TESTING GUIDELINES
The CKCSC, USA Recommended Guidelines for Cavalier Health Testing were amended to
reflect consistency with prevailing cardiology protocols. The amended guidelines are stated below.
CKCSC, USA Recommended Guidelines for Cavalier Health Testing:
http://ckcsc.org/ckcsc/ckcsc_inc.nsf/Founded-1954/testingguide.html
The CKCSC, USA recommends that prior to breeding any Cavalier, the dog should have:
1. A heart clearance from an auscultation by a board certified veterinary
cardiologist that is consistent with prevailing cardiology protocols; however,
the CKCSC, USA, recommends a minimum of a cardiology clearance at age 2.5 years
by a board certified veterinary cardiologist.
2. A normal rating or within CERF breeder options from a screening by a
board certified veterinary ophthalmologist;
3. No evidence of patella luxation from an evaluation by a licensed veterinarian: and
4. A passing grade from an X-ray for hip dysplasia submitted to the OFA
(Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).
It is further recommended that subsequent periodic exams be conducted
for hearts, eyes, and patella luxation.
Results of the most recent health clearances should be provided to
the owners of both the stud dog and brood bitch at the time of breeding.
These results should also be available to the new puppy owner.
The CKCSC, USA Recommended Guidelines for Cavalier Health Testing were amended to
reflect consistency with prevailing cardiology protocols. The amended guidelines are stated below.
CKCSC, USA Recommended Guidelines for Cavalier Health Testing:
http://ckcsc.org/ckcsc/ckcsc_inc.nsf/Founded-1954/testingguide.html
The CKCSC, USA recommends that prior to breeding any Cavalier, the dog should have:
1. A heart clearance from an auscultation by a board certified veterinary
cardiologist that is consistent with prevailing cardiology protocols; however,
the CKCSC, USA, recommends a minimum of a cardiology clearance at age 2.5 years
by a board certified veterinary cardiologist.
2. A normal rating or within CERF breeder options from a screening by a
board certified veterinary ophthalmologist;
3. No evidence of patella luxation from an evaluation by a licensed veterinarian: and
4. A passing grade from an X-ray for hip dysplasia submitted to the OFA
(Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).
It is further recommended that subsequent periodic exams be conducted
for hearts, eyes, and patella luxation.
Results of the most recent health clearances should be provided to
the owners of both the stud dog and brood bitch at the time of breeding.
These results should also be available to the new puppy owner.
Many breeders are now taking advantage of two additonal tests before breeding their Cavaliers.
The Animal Health Trust performs the DNA tests necessary.
The Animal Health Trust performs the DNA tests necessary.
The Animal Health Trust is an independent charity, employing over 200 scientists, vets and support workers.
Its principal objectives are to study and endeavor to cure diseases in companion animals,
and to advance the teaching and practice of veterinary art and science.
They have referral clinics for horses, dogs and cats. They offer diagnostic services
to vets and DNA testing to assist dog breeders. Their researchers and clinicians
look for ways to diagnose problems, prevent them and, where they can, cure them.
They share their knowledge internationally to benefit horses, dogs and cats all
around the world. Website: https://secure.ahtdnatesting.co.uk/
The Animal Health Trust, located in the United Kingdom, has developed
the following two DNA tests for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels:
Test #1 - For Episodic Falling Syndrome
Test #2 - For Dry Eye/Curly Coat
Its principal objectives are to study and endeavor to cure diseases in companion animals,
and to advance the teaching and practice of veterinary art and science.
They have referral clinics for horses, dogs and cats. They offer diagnostic services
to vets and DNA testing to assist dog breeders. Their researchers and clinicians
look for ways to diagnose problems, prevent them and, where they can, cure them.
They share their knowledge internationally to benefit horses, dogs and cats all
around the world. Website: https://secure.ahtdnatesting.co.uk/
The Animal Health Trust, located in the United Kingdom, has developed
the following two DNA tests for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels:
Test #1 - For Episodic Falling Syndrome
Test #2 - For Dry Eye/Curly Coat
Episodic Falling in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Episodic falling is a neurological condition, induced by exercise, excitement or frustration, in which muscle tone increases. This means the dog is unable to relax its muscles, becomes rigid and falls over. Affected dogs usually start to demonstrate clinical signs before one year of age, with most cases having their first episode aged four to seven months. Early in 2011 Geneticists at the Animal Health Trust identified a recessive mutation associated with Episodic Falling. Episodic Falling syndrome is often difficult to diagnose as the syndrome can show similarities to other neurological conditions, such as epilepsy. A DNA test has been developed which will provide a useful diagnostic tool to the veterinary profession and dog breeders. _____________________________________________________________ Breeders using the test will be sent results identifying their dog as belonging to one of three categories: CLEAR: these dogs have two normal copies of DNA. Clear dogs will not develop EF as a result of the identified mutation. We cannot exclude the possibility that some dogs may show some clinical signs similar to those of EF but due to a different genetic or clinical cause. CARRIER: these dogs have one copy of the mutation and one normal copy of DNA. These dogs will not develop EF themselves but they will pass the mutation on to approximately 50% of their offspring. We cannot exclude the possibility that some dogs may show some clinical signs similar to those of EF but due to a different genetic or clinical cause. AFFECTED: these dogs have two copies of the EF associated mutation and are likely to present clinical signs of EF during their lifetime, with an age of onset of around 4-7 months. EF is a highly variable condition. Our research indicates that some dogs with the EF associated mutation will not show clinical signs of EF. |
Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Dry eye and curly coat, known scientifically as congenital keratoconjunctivitis sicca and ichtyosiform dermatosis, affects a dog’s eyes and skin. Affected dogs produce no tears making their eyes incredibly sore. Their skin becomes very flaky and dry, particularly around the foot, and this can make standing and walking difficult and painful. This syndrome appears to be a problem unique to CKCS and most dogs diagnosed with the condition are put to sleep. Early in 2011 Geneticists at the AHT identified a recessive mutation associated with Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome. A DNA test has been developed which will provide a useful diagnostic tool to the veterinary profession and dog breeders. The DNA test is specific to the mutation causing Dry Eye and Curly Coat Syndrome. ______________________________________________________________ Breeders using the test will be sent results identifying their dog as belonging to one of three categories: CLEAR: these dogs have two normal copies of DNA. Clear dogs will not be affected by Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome as a result of the associated mutation identified. CARRIER: these dogs have one copy of the mutation and one normal copy of DNA. These dogs will not develop Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome themselves but they will pass the mutation on to approximately 50% of their offspring. AFFECTED: these dogs have two copies of the mutation associated with Dry Eye Curly Coat Syndrome and will be clinically affected. Please note that is it is possible for some Cavaliers to be affected by non congenital forms of ichthyosis or dry eye which will not be detected by the DNA test. |