Degenerative Myelopathy-Test Results

As most of us are aware Degenerative Myelopathy is becoming a problem in German Shepherds, as Janine and I have a pure bred German Shepherd (Midnight Blue) and a GSDxMalamute (Cruz), which we intend to use within the Utonagan Breeding Programme, we decided to test for this, as the last thing we need is to pass this dreadful condition on to our breed,very pleased to announce both dogs are normal. Bit of a tense time whilst we waited for the test results I can tell you!!!!

May I be the first to say well done to both you and Janine/Chilli for being so responsible and setting such a good example for us all. Congratulations on the clear results for both furries. x

Thanks Lyn, as you know when I discussed it with you, I have a horror of us bringing in something that isn't there already and making a bad situation worse. When Jan and I were discussing Cruz's health tests she said we would be stupid not to do the DM test first of all, and then if that went well, we could do the required tests, rather than spend a fortune doing the required tests and then find out we had DM carriers.
DM has now been found in breeds that have originated with the GSD so not really worth closing our eyes and crossing our fingers and hoping it won't happen, it very well could.

Admin wrote:Thanks Lyn, as you know when I discussed it with you, I have a horror of us bringing in something that isn't there already and making a bad situation worse. When Jan and I were discussing Cruz's health tests she said we would be stupid not to do the DM test first of all, and then if that went well, we could do the required tests, rather than spend a fortune doing the required tests and then find out we had DM carriers.
DM has now been found in breeds that have originated with the GSD so not really worth closing our eyes and crossing our fingers and hoping it won't happen, it very well could.

Absolutely Well done Janine for being on the ball. x

Thanks Lyn. June and myself are trying to be on the ball, the last thing we need is more health problems. We're going to get enough crap from all around bringing in Cruz & Midnight as it is, all being the other tests go as well of course. It's our first step in the right direction, all we can do is hope it will be fruitful. x

Chilli wrote:Thanks Lyn. June and myself are trying to be on the ball, the last thing we need is more health problems. We're going to get enough crap from all around bringing in Cruz & Midnight as it is, all being the other tests go as well of course. It's our first step in the right direction, all we can do is hope it will be fruitful. x

Your very welcome x
I'm sure you will be fruitful as between June and yourself you both have great knowledge of genetics, history and experience. I send good wishes and luck to you both. xxx

Well done to you both. I don't understand all that (I'm a thicko) but sounds all good to me. Wish more did tests!

It is the problem in GSD's where their back end goes, to put it very basically, I'm sure if you google it it'll be more precise than that!!!! It is carried genetically, and all my dobies had it, so I know first hand how heart breaking it is. Also, it doesn't show itself until later years, so you would have more than likely had a few litters if you were a breeder, and never know until it was too late what you had done. Nowadays there is a test for it, so no excuse for anyone not to do the test!!!!