MDR1, CEA, and Hip Dysplasia
About the MDR1 Mutation
The MDR1 mutation refers to a multi-drug resistance mutation in a dog’s genetic code. According to the ASCA, roughly 50 % of the Australian Shepherd breed is affected, either as a carrier of the gene (one of the two copies in the genetic pair is a mutation), or as a full blown genetic problem ( both copies in the genetic pair are mutations). An MDR1 mutation makes dogs sensitive to negative effects of certain drugs, causing serious neurological illness or death. We won’t go into all the technical jargon about MDR1, many good scientific articles are available if you would like to read them. Simply do an internet search for MDR1 and the floodgates will open! The AKC and ASCA are working hard to eliminate the threat of MDR1 mutations. Conscientious breeders are doing their part as well. Every breeding dog should have a clear genetic panel before breeding. Any animal with two copies of the MDR1 mutation should be spayed or neutered and loved as pets and pets only. The problem can easily be managed, if the owner is aware and takes precautions. Below is a list of drugs that will cause problems in an MDR1 dog. If you have a dog with this problem, use only alternative drugs that are deemed safe. Many believe that for this mutation to be a health hazard, a dog must have two copies of the gene mutation. That one copy will not affect the dog, who is simply a genetic “carrier”. According to ASCA, even a carrier can exhibit drug sensitivity. Regardless, if a carrier is bred to another carrier or a dog with two copies of the mutation, offspring are at serious risk. Some, though not many, breeders use carriers in their breeding programs. They carefully breed carrier dogs with those that have a clear genetic panel. They believe that offspring will be safe. It is Rebel Yell Kennel’s policy to breed only dogs with clear genetic panels. In our opinion, the goal of a breeder should be to eliminate this terrible problem, not simply manage it. Whether you purchase a puppy from us or not, we strongly recommend that you, as a potential buyer, know the genetic test results of the parents of your potential puppy. If tests were not performed or the breeder is reluctant to share results of genetic tests, you should look for another breeder! There are many good, reputable breeders of Australian Shepherds. You shouldn’t risk the purchase of a genetically compromised pup, even if the “price is right”.
Drugs that affect dogs with MDR1 mutation ( from collielife.com)
DO NO USE Ivermectine substances (Dispex, Ecomectin, Ivomec…)
Doramectine substances (Dectomax)
Moxidectine substances (Cydectin, Equest)
Loperamide (Immondium)
Flagyl (metronidazole)
USE WITH Cytostatics (chemotherapy)
CLOSE VET Immunosuppressives (Cyclosporin)
SUPERVISION Heart Glycosides (Digoxine, Methyldigoxine)
Opiods (morphine)
Antiarrhythmics (Ondansetron, Domperidone, Metaclopramide)
Antibiotics (Sparfloxacin, Grepafloxacin, Erythromycin)
Antihistamin (Ebastin)
Glucocorticord (Dexamethasone)
Acepromazine (tranquilizer)
Butorphanol (“Bute”, analgesic)
Other Drugs (Etoposide, Mitoxantrone, Ondanseton, Paclitaxel, Rifampicin)
USE ONLY IN Selamectin (Stronghold)
APPROVED Milbemax
APPLICATION Advocate
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COLLIE EYE ANOMALY
Although not as prevalent as MDR1, Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) needs to be explained. CEA is an inherited developmental disease. It is a genetic mutation that affects eye development and results in defects in many layers of the eye. The most common sigh of CEA is blindness. Degree of vision loss varies depending upon the severity of developmental defects. CEA cannot be reversed. Once again, this is a genetic disease. Rebel Yell Kennel only breeds dogs that are genetically tested and cleared for this mutation. No carriers are used in our breeding program. In our opinion, every breeder should do the same. Our goal is to improve the breed by eliminating health problems as we can, not managing one. Whether you purchase a puppy from us or another breeder, we strongly advise you to ask for proof of a genetic panel on both parents and purchase a pup free from this problem. If a breeder has no genetic test results or is reluctant to show them, we suggest that you find another breeder, no matter how “cheap” the puppy is.
Hip Dysplasia
This is a condition of the hip joint. Hips are a “ball and socket” joint. “Dysplasia” refers to abnormal growth. Basically, it is a poor fit between the ball and socket, which affects mobility and leads to pain and arthritis. There are varying degrees of severity. Some dogs may show signs early in life while others late. It can be managed with medication and/or surgery. Hip Dysplasia is a genetic condition. If parents have it, chances are that the offspring will as well. Breeders should only breed dogs that have been x-rayed and evaluated for this condition. However, evaluation through the Orthopedic Foundation (OFA) can only be done after two years old. If OFA results for a parent are “pending” they are probably not yet old enough to evaluate. OFA results from their parents should be considered before purchasing a puppy. All of Rebel Yell Kennel’s dogs are either OFA certified good/excellent or, if “pending’, their parents are. Although dogs are genetically predisposed to dysplasia, environmental factors can play into development and progression of this condition. This would include level and type of exercise, nutrition, and “footing”. Developing bodies need special attention. A puppy needs food developed especially for growing puppies. Many good foods are available. Table scraps should be fed only as a little treat, or not at all. An unusual amount of exercise or play should be avoided. By this, we mean exercise above the average for a rambunctious pup. Play with bigger, stronger and older dogs should be avoided or monitored carefully. Puppies also need sturdy, slip proof “footing” or the additional stress can cause joints and tendons/ligaments to develop abnormally. Linoleum, tile, hardwood, and other “slick” floors should be avoided. Opt for footing with traction (carpet, textured concrete, dirt, grass, etc.)