DM DNA test - Page 6

Blitzen is correct All gsd not just this bloodline or another can carry or have this disorder. I have Czech dogs we test all we have never had a at risk but do see carriers. It is easy to test and not expensive. This test IMO is a great thing. We use Vet DNA but have no problem showing our actual test results.

Some say it gets easier as time passes after the loss of a beloved. I have always thought the pain just burrows deeper therefore, hurts in a different- maybe easier to tolerate way. I hope your wonderful memories are some comfort in these sad and heavy times.

It seems that there is a long road ahead on way to beating DM as there appears to be new evidence of multiple strains, therefore more tests will need to be developed. There are more and more breeders making the efforts to test and as new tests are developed hopefully more strains will be eliminated. Both breeders and buyers are responsible for the eradication of this disease. Buyers must demand puppies that are tested as breeders must test and breed to not produce positive puppies. If we all make the commitment, DM could eventually be come a rare occurrance.

Thank you all for your kind words and sympathies... It was a tough road, and I miss Danke everyday as our lives are just not the same with her not here. Her passing was as peaceful as we'd planned it to be, and our vet was an absolute godsend. She parked at our neighbors until we were ready for her, having snuck the first syringe into the house with Danke in her usual alpha spot in front of the fire, I was able to give her the first shot without her seeing the needle. My husband and I sat with her stroking her and giving her love as she fell asleep for the last time...to be honest, I haven't seen her sleep that peacefully and contentedly since she started showing signs of DM, she was snoring softly and before that, was moaning her "oh, that feels good moan" while we were massaging her. Once we were sure that she was out to the world, we brought the vet in who first drew blood (for the DM test), and then gave her the last injection. Danke simply stopped breathing, no last gasp or struggle..... just flying free. We then let our two boys (golden retriever and labradoodle) in to say goodbye, which was an amazing thing to witness (a story in itself). I can't tell you all how glad we are that we found this vet who was willing to come to our home and give Danke the most peaceful passing possible. I highly recommend going this route to anyone in a similar position, and can pass our vet's info on to those in the Seattle/Tacoma area to anyone who would like it. For us it was the least we could do for our sweet girl who had given us her lifetime of service, love and protection. For those of you reading, thank you for giving me a place to share this experience with other people who obviously love and appreciate the GSD breed as much as we do. And, I have a simple request for you... please, demand from any breeder that you are considering, that they produce the results of their DM testing for their ENTIRE line of GSDs before you consider purchasing from them. If they aren't willing to, or haven't tested....let them know that you insist on proof that their dogs are clear of DM! The only way we are going to end this disease is to hit breeders in the pocket book, if they can't sell a dog without DM clearance.... they will quickly get onboard with making it a priority. Let's get the word out and put an end to this disease now, before it contaminates the entire GSD breed! Finally, to those breeders already out there who are fighting this battle, thank you...you are made from the right stuff, proving your commitment to the breed and not the dollar.

Danke
I am glad you came back to let us know that Danke's passing was peaceful, and that it went as you planned, a good vet is worth their weight in gold at times like this.

It is so important to get that moment right, it is a moment in time that will live with you forever, and if it goes badly will haunt you forever. I too have always planned it very carefully, at home and have so far always had a good experiences, in so much as such a terrible loss can be good, but you know what I mean.

I know there is a void in your heart right now, but Danke will be with you always, and I am sure you will speak with her often.