THE C.K.C.S CLUB HEALTH SUB COMMITTEE
MULTIFOCAL RETINAL DYSPLASIA (MRD) RESEARCH
Dr Keith Barnett, of The Animal Health Trust, has suggested that Cavaliers could benefit from the MRD research in Golden Retrievers, where it is hoped that the Gene Marker responsible for the condition will soon be identified. He believes that Cavaliers may possess a similar marker and has agreed to examine DNA samples taken from the breed.

The samples should be taken from known affected dogs / bitches and their unaffected siblings, parents or close relatives. He would then be able to look for the marker present in the affected dogs that should be absent from the unaffected dogs.

Ideally, blood samples should be provided, 3 to 5 ml in ETDA anti-coagulant tubes. Alternatively, for very young or old donors, cheek swabs can be used.

Please indicate whether the samples are MRD pass or failures and the name of the Ophthalmologist who conducted the diagnosis.

Samples should be sent to the address below.
CURLY COAT SYNDROME
Dry Eye found in conjunction with curly coat syndrome appears to be peculiar to the Cavalier breed. No cases of the two abnormalities occurring together have been recorded in any other breed to date. Unfortunately there appears to be very little that can be done for affected puppies, and sadly, the general consensus is that euthanasia is the kindest course of action.

This condition does not, however seem to be occurring in large numbers, but to establish the extent of the problem, more information is required from breeders.

Dr Barnett has agreed to investigate Dry Eye and his colleague at The Animal Trust will examine skin tissue samples. DNA is required from affected puppies, their siblings and parents to identify the gene responsible.

Ideally, blood samples should be provided, 3 to 5 ml in ETDA anti-coagulant tubes. Alternatively, for very young or old donors, cheek swabs can be used.

Please indicate clearly that the samples are Curly Coat affected or related and send to the address below.
If anyone should hear of any cases would you ask the breeder to contact Mr Peter Towse, IN STRICTEST CONFIDENCE.

Arrangements can then be made for the affected puppy / puppies to be taken to Dr Barnett for examination. Euthanasia and analysis may be a course of action with the agreement of the breeder.

Samples should be marked for the attention of Dr K Barnett and sent to:
Sarah Gray
The Animal Health Trust
Lanwades Park
Newmarket CB8 7UU
Information to:

Mr Peter Towse
C.K.C.S. Club Health Sub Committee
Kingsway Bungalow
Miletree Road
Heath and Reach
Leighton Buzzard LU7 9LA

Tel / Fax: 01525 237779 or Tel: 01525 237563
Email peter@miletreeuk.com
Back to Top
This document maintained by the webmaster@thecavalierclub.co.uk.
Material Copyright © 2011 The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club