Genetic Disease
VetGen is working toward the development of new DNA Tests for inherited diseases in many breeds of dog. Participation in VetGen's research is completely free and confidential. Samples are conveniently collected using our oral cheek swab kits. Current major research projects include:
-
Early-onset (or Juvenile) cataract
VetGen is interested in collecting samples from families of dogs in which two or more are affected. -
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
We are interested in collecting samples from a few affected dogs. -
Canine Hip Dysplasia
We are interested in collecting samples from families of dogs in which two or more are affected. -
Inherited Epilepsy
We are interested in collecting samples from families of dogs in which two or more are affected. -
von Willebrand's Disease (vWD)
VetGen is interested in collecting samples from dogs that have had a low result on the vonWillebrand's factor assay test, or dogs that have had a history of bleeding thought to be due to vWD. To date vWD testing is available through VetGen for the Doberman Pinscher, Scottish Terrier, Poodle, Manchester Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Bernese Mountain Dog.
| Breeds | Early Onset (or Juvenile) Cataract | Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Canine Hip Dysplasia | Inherited Epilepsy | von Willebrand's Disease |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airedale Terrier | families | ||||
| Alaskan Malamute | families | ||||
| All not listed in description | low vWF/bleeders | ||||
| American Cocker Spaniel | families | affecteds | |||
| Australian Shepherd | families | ||||
| Beagle | families | ||||
| Bernese Mountain Dog | families | ||||
| Boston Terriers | families | ||||
| Bullmastiff | families | ||||
| Collie | families | ||||
| Dalmatian | families | ||||
| English Springer Spaniel | families | ||||
| German Shepherd | families | families | |||
| Golden Retriever | families | families | |||
| Irish Setter | families | ||||
| Labrador Retriever | families | affecteds | families | ||
| Miniature Schnauzer | families | ||||
| Newfoundland | families | ||||
| Old English Sheepdog | families | ||||
| Poodle | families | affecteds | |||
| Portuguese Water Dog | affecteds | families | |||
| Rottweiler | families | ||||
| Samoyed | families |
Please keep in mind that VetGen is currently collecting samples from these breeds. In the future and as research develops, we will expand the number of breeds in which we collect samples.
Dog lovers who are interested in helping VetGen's research should contact us.
