MIAMI VALLEY LABRADOR RETRIEVER CLUB

 Canine Atopic Dermatitis
Research Study
 
      

Canine atopy dermatitis is a disease that occurs when a dog is allergic to environmental allergens (eg. pollens of trees/grasses/weeds, dust mites, storage mites, molds, etc.). It is very similar to hay fever and asthma in humans, except dogs typically develop skin problems rather than respiratory issues. Dogs with atopic dermatitis will rub, lick, chew, bite or scratch at their feet, muzzle, ears, and other areas causing hair lose and reddening/thickening of the skin. Treatment options include antihistamines, steroids, cyclosporine or immunotherapy. An affected dog may need to continue treatment throughout his life. The Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition is developing tests for genetics diseases of dogs. They are putting significant research effort into studying canine atopy with its accompanying symptoms (scratching, hot spots, sores, swelling, discomfort, etc). If the research is successful, a breeder would be able to test a litter of puppies and determine which, if any, have a particular disease. Once identified, those puppies could be sure to have proper diets and veterinary care to keep the disease from lowering their ,quality of life,
To further the research:
  • We need blood from ALL Labrador Retrievers, including those that do not have any allergies.
  • We will donate $5 to The Labrador Retriever Fund for Genetic Research for every Labrador Retriever who donates blood to our project.
  • We will provide a DNA storage service FREE OF CHARGE to participants. The service allows owners to bank the DNA from their dogs and utilize it later for research or testing purposes. This service is valued at $50.

PLEASE HELP US

Contact: Amy Suggars (614) 781-0283 AmySuggars@mindspring.com

ALL RESULTS FROM INDIVIDUAL DOGS WILL BE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL