Inherited Ventricular Arrhythmia In Young German Shepherds - Page 1

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cherjam81

by cherjam81 on 19 October 2016 - 00:10

I am hoping someone has more information on this. I was just informed that the litter mate to my pup was just diagnosed with this. They are just over 8 months old.
Is there a test that can be done?
Thanks Cheryl

by hexe on 19 October 2016 - 00:10

Start with your regular vet, and request a referral to a board-certified cardiologist.

by anawd on 19 October 2016 - 02:10

I'd suggest a 24-hour holter monitor. Depending on your location, you may be able to contact a local Doberman or Boxer club that has one you could rent. This is usually much cheaper than going through a vet clinic (you'd likely have to go to a specialist as most clinics only offer a short ECG). That would give you a starting point at least.

Another option would be to rent from the cardiology care network at NCSU. They will ship the monitor and all equipment needed to you, and send you results by email that you could either have their specialist evaluate, or have only the results sent and go over with your own veterinarian.

The 24-hour holter will show you how many PVC's your dog is having and you'll also need to keep a diary so you'll know when they are happening (for example, if you go play ball with the dog, write down the beginning and end time).


cherjam81

by cherjam81 on 19 October 2016 - 11:10

THANKS everyone. I am making an appt. to take her in this week.


by GSD1buddy on 19 October 2016 - 20:10

Hi Cherjam81, We do this test on all our dogs and all the puppies before they leave to their new homes.. It tests for all health issues but a major one is Dilated cardiomyopathy, which is related to Ventricular arrhythmia.
Hope this helps.

http://livewelltesting.com/canine-healthcheck-dog-genetic-dna-disease-trait-test/

susie

by susie on 19 October 2016 - 20:10

Cornell University/College of Veterinary Medicine:

" German shepherds have an inherited ventricular arrhythmia that affects young dogs between 3 and 24 months of age. Some dogs die suddenly of these arrhythmias most commonly between 5 and 9 months of age. A diagnosis usually requires a Holter monitoring period to catch the dangerous arrhythmia. After 24 months of age the arrhythmias disappear and the dogs are no longer at risk, although when used for breeding they have affected offspring when mated to a dog that has the genetic background of risk."

That said most of the "affected" dogs are able to live a totally normal life. You just shouldn´t breed them...

cherjam81

by cherjam81 on 20 October 2016 - 00:10

Thank you GSD1buddy & Susie. I am checking it all out now.
Cheryl

cherjam81

by cherjam81 on 22 October 2016 - 18:10

Great news. She checked out fine.





 


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