Here at Top Shelf we test above and beyond the common
health tests..
Below we have listed the tests we perform on our Beagle
prior to breeding and the links to their explanations:
OFA Hips - offa.org
Another good link regarding hip dysplasia in Beagles
http://www.geocities.com/aladarbeagles/hd2.html
OFA Elbow - offa.org
OFA Cardiac - offa.org
CERF - eyes -
http://www.vmdb.org/cerf.html
Factor VII deficiency -
http://clubs.akc.org/NBC/factor7.html
MLS - Musladin-lueke syndrome -
http://www.vgl.ucdavis.edu/services/MLS.php
PK - Pyruvate Kinase -
http://clubs.akc.org/NBC/pyruvate_kinase.htm
Explanation of diseases that parents have been tested for
Diseases
that have DNA testing available to determine clear, carrier and affected
dogs
Factor VII Deficiency
This disorder is known to cause a mild bleeding
disorder in beagles. Only rare reports of severe bleeding have been
reported. Most affected dogs actually remain totally asymptomatic. Affected
dogs could exhibit an increased bleeding tendency following a trauma or
surgery. The frequency of this problem is unknown but by testing we can
avoid producing beagles that are affected with this deficiency.
Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency
This disorder is known to cause anemia in
beagles. A specific defect was discovered in the PK gene that causes the
anemia. Affected beagles can be severely anemic and they generally die at a
young age – generally before 5 years of age. Symptoms vary but most are
exercise intolerant and most have pale gums. Many beagles with this disease
will also have increased density of their bones. By testing all beagles
before they are bred we can avoid producing beagles that are affected with
this serious issue.
Musladin-Lueke Syndrome (MLS)
This is a genetic condition that affects the
development and structure of connective tissue. It tends to affect multiple
organs, including bone, heart, skin, and muscle. The severity of clinical
signs is variable. Some animals can live a fairly normal life with the
disease. However others cannot be kept comfortable and may require
euthanasia. Dogs that can function normally at maturity generally do not
progress. This syndrome can be prevented by testing all beagles before they
are bred.
Diseases that parents are screened for but the
exact genetic mechanism of inheritance has not been determined
These diseases are ones that are felt to be genetic but
the way that they are passed down to their offspring is unknown. By breeding
clear parents the chances of getting an affected puppy are decreased but not
completely eliminated. The things that fall into this category are testing
for hip and elbow dysplasia, inherited heart defects, thyroid problems and
different eye conditions. Most of the screenings need only be done one time
although the eye exam (CERF) needs to be done on a yearly basis to keep the
clearance current. Unfortunately some eye diseases may not show up until
later in life so repeat certifications are required.
Please ask your breeder or
veterinarian if you have any questions on any of these diseases.
