Health

Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD) is an inherited immunodeficiency condition which affects the white blood cells ability to fight infection.  Affected puppies show infections from a very early age, often with umbilical (navel) infections from birth with other recurring infections of skin, mouth and sores that do not heal.  There may be tonsillitis, pneumonia as well as joint and bone problems. These infections usually respond well to antibiotics but, as soon as they are stopped, the infections return. Inflammation of the gums occurs when the pups are about 2 months old along with swollen jaws. Some joints become swollen, in some cases so much so that movement is difficult. Although it affects different pups to varying degrees CLAD is inevitably fatal.

CLAD is identical to human LAD and bovine LAD and this helped research as it was known that the mode of inheritance is by a single recessive mutation in a gene that is responsible for controlling a vital part of the function of the white blood cells.  This means that puppies have to inherit two copies of the mutant gene, one from its dam and one from its sire.  Research on the disease was carried out in England and Scandinavia, where the carrier rate was close to 12%. That meant that 12% of the tested population of Irish Setters was not suffering from and never would suffer from the disease but could pass on the mutant gene to its pups. Affected dogs are likely to die before reaching breeding age, but mating of two carriers will produce, on average, one affected, two carriers and one clear progeny for every 4 pups.

Irish Setters now have a DNA test for CLAD which has, over time, allowed breeders to apparently eliminate the problem from the breed in UK.  No Irish setter that has been tested for CLAD since 2007 has been found to be either a carrier or affected.  Unless a case is made to the KC for exceptional circumstances then no puppy can be registered with the Kennel Club unless it is either hereditarily clear or tested clear.

It is important that if you are considering buying a puppy you check with the breeder to confirm that both the sire and the dam have been DNA tested clear or are hereditarily clear.  If not, then the puppy himself needs to have been DNA tested.  If not, we recommend you do not buy the puppy.  The information is clearly shown on the puppy’s Kennel Club registration papers.

Follow the link to see the list of Irish Setters tested for CLAD in UK, however it does not show the Irish that are hereditarily clear of the condition.

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/4312/irish-setter-clad.pdf

DNA test – CLAD (Canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency)

An  Irish Setter dog was imported to UK in 2016 and is confirmed as being a CLAD carrier and we believe there is a second imported dog that is also a CLAD carrier.  Neither of these dogs appear on the Kennel Club register of dogs DNA tested for CLAD. In UK it is very easy to become complacent and believe this problem no longer exists but it obviously does. Responsible breeders do not want CLAD to become a problem in the breed again so please check that your puppy and parents  are CLAD clear.

One of these CLAD carriers has been used at stud and therefore, statistically, 50% of his puppies will be carriers increasing the number of carriers in UK. 

References

– Immune Deficiency in the Irish Setter (Granulocytophy) SEISC Southern Aspect 1990/1991
  Dr Gunilla Trowald-Wigh

– Irish Setter Club of Wales Memorial Lecture 22/2/98
  Speaker Dr Gunilla Trowald- Wigh, veterinary clinician from Uppsala University

– Leucocyte adhesion protein deficiency in Irish Setter dogs 1999
  Dr Gunilla  Trowald –Wigh, Lena Hakansson, Anders Johannisson, Leif Norrgren and Carl Hard af Segerrstad

– Canine Leucocyte Adhesion deficiency (CLAD) in the Irish Setter 2000
  Dr Jeff Sampson KC Canine Genetics Co ordinator

When dog puppies are born their testicles have not descended into the scrotum.  Usually by the time they are 8 weeks the testicles can be clearly felt by a vet or an experienced breeder but may take a few more weeks to descend fully.  However, occasionally, one or both do not descend but are retained inside the body; this is cryptorchidism.

Cryptorchidism is believed to be inherited, and affected dogs cannot be shown.

Surgical removal of the undescended testicle(s) is recommended as the retained testicle can become cancerous; the descended testicle should also be removed to stop unwanted breeding. Replacement with prosthetic testicles is practised in some countries but is considered unethical in the UK.

Late‐onset (rcd‐4) progressive retinal atrophy in Irish Setters: Where are we, and where do we go from here?

Jerold S Bell DVM Clinical Associate Professor of Genetics Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine

We now know from Dr. Cathryn Mellersh at the Animal Health Trust in the UK that there are at least three different inherited progressive retinal atrophy disorders in the breed; and early onset rcd‐1, a still undefined middle‐age onset PRA, and late‐onset rcd‐4 PRA.

The AHT reports a 30‐40% carrier rate worldwide for the defective gene in Irish Setters. The rcd‐4 gene that causes Irish Setter PRA is one that similarly causes autosomal recessive late‐onset progressive retinal atrophy in man. It is the same genetic mutation causing late‐onset rcd‐4 PRA in Gordon Setters. Irish Setter owners will receive affected test results for dogs who have no observable vision problems. This is because this is a late‐onset disorder. It was originally reported that the average onset of this form of PRA was around 10 years of age. This is the average age of Irish Setters recognized with visual impairment that test affected with rcd‐4 PRA. The actual age of onset of Irish Setter rcd‐4 PRA is possibly much older; with many affected dogs never reaching the age of onset of visual impairment. In addition, owners of very old Irish Setters with visual impairment may believe that it is “normal” for old dogs to not see well, and do not pursue a diagnosis of PRA. The fact of the matter is that there is a range of age of onset for the clinical signs of Irish Setter rcd‐4 PRA where some may slowly lose their vision at younger than 10 years of age, and some many never show clinical signs of a vision problem.

Dr. Cathryn Mellersh at the AHT is currently searching for the defective gene causing the middle‐age onset form of PRA in the breed, and is interested in cheek swab samples from affected dogs and their close relatives.

Because there is more than one form of PRA in the breed, and because Irish Setters can also have other disorders of the eyelids, cornea, lens, and retina, the rcd‐4 genetic test does not replace the need for annual CERF examinations of the eyes.

The most important thing that we need to do about rcd‐4 PRA is to not devastate the Irish Setter gene pool with widespread spaying/neutering, and the removing of quality dogs from breeding. Aside from the loss of quality dogs, the breed cannot withstand the removal of 30% to 40% of breeding dogs from the gene pool and maintain breed genetic diversity. This is not the only direct gene test that is available for the breed. We must all recognize that the proper use of genetic tests for recessive disease is to breed quality carrier dogs to quality clear dogs, and replace the carrier parent with a clear‐testing offspring that is of equal or better quality.

If a quality dog that you determine deserves to be bred tests as a carrier, you certainly can and should breed the dog. You must make a decision counter to the emotional reaction when you received the carrier test result. Making a decision to not breed a quality dog based on a single testable gene is not appropriate. As long as carriers are not bred to carriers, no affected dogs will be produced. This is a testable and controllable gene. By dealing with rcd‐4 PRA in an objective and informed manner, we can continue to produce quality Irish Setters and work away from this single gene hereditary disorder. The goal is to slowly decrease the carrier frequency in the population and slowly replace carrier breeding stock with normal offspring. This will take many generations. A genetic test should not alter WHO gets bred, only WHO the dog gets BRED TO.

Lastly, it is important to remember that this is about the dogs. You belong to a community that loves Irish Setters. No one wants to produce carrier or affected dogs. The stigmatizing of breeders and quality dogs due to carrier status is an old, outdated and an unacceptable practice. We need to be able to raise the level of conversation to constructive communication.

In UK the DNA test results are automatically published quarterly by the Kennel Club in the Breed Record Supplement and also monthly on their website:
http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health/health-information-and-resources/…

With several genetic tests available and more on the way, we know that there are no “perfect” dogs. By working together you can improve your breeding attitudes, your breeding programs, and the overall health of the Irish Setter breed.

Dr Bell’s original article has been slightly modified, with his permission, to reflect the fact that the results for all KC registered dogs are automatically published by The Kennel Club. This modification is in italics. The rest of the article is as written by Dr Bell.

A condition in which the edge of one or both eyelids turns inwards to the eyeball; usually it is the bottom eyelid that turns inwards. The condition causes the eyelashes and outer lid hair to irritate and inflame the cornea. It is very painful and in severe cases corneal ulcers and rupture of the eyeball can occur.  If seen in puppies it is likely to be inherited but may have other causes in an older dog.  Sometimes only one eye will be affected but then the other may turn later.

Symptoms: Continual watering of the eyes.  Eyes looking red.  Affected dog may often rub its eye against furniture or your leg.  You may also see for yourself that the lid is turning inwards.

Action:   Consult your vet as it may require surgery.  Also tell your breeder, as affected dogs should not be used for breeding and, ideally, neither should their parents. Your vet should also notify the Kennel Club that they have performed a cosmetic procedure to correct the defect.

 Ectropion is the opposite of Entropion and the eyelid turns out.

Bloat

2012 has been an important year for Irish Setter Breeders as all UK Breed Clubs along with the Irish Red Setter Rescue Charitable Trust have raised the money to fund phase 1 of the genetic investigation of bloat in Irish Setters by Cathryn Mellersh of AHT. Breed surveys have shown that the incidence of bloat in the breed is significant but we are aware it is likely a truly complex disease, having both genetic and environmental components.  The investigation has been divided into two parts and we are currently waiting for correspondence from AHT so that data can be collected and the estimation of heritability be evaluated.  If heritability is significant then AHT will proceed to the second part of the study, which will comprise a genetic investigation.  Owners/breeders of all dogs registered with the Kennel Club in the last ten years will be contacted by AHT and we hope that there will be a sufficient response to the request for details of individual dogs. The initial interest in the research certainly suggests this will happen and everyone will be encouraged to reply.

https://www.irishsetterhealth.info/content/genetic-investigation-bloat

CHV

During the year Ben Harris, who was at The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital, Cambridge University, collected DNA samples from dams and their puppies for research into a technique, PCR (polymerase chain reaction), that can be used to detect Canine Herpes Virus. This technique has been used to detect CHV DNA on tissue samples already but, in theory, could be applied to nasal swabs from live dogs. Ben’s study is investigating this possibility.  Breeders responded positively to Ben’s request for swabs and he is now carrying out his research and will be writing up the results. We wait his paper with interest.

https://www.irishsetterhealth.info/content/canine-herpesvirus

PRA rcd4

Last year AHT developed a DNA test for PRA rcd4 and testing is continuing with all results of KC registered dogs being published on their website and updated monthly. Over 400 dogs are clear, just over 300 are carriers and about 75 affected. Our sister site www.seisc.co.uk also published results from around the world, mainly Europe, providing we were sent copies of the results from the owners. The joint breed clubs health committee is monitoring the situation and it appears that breeders who are members of breed clubs are now ensuring no further genetically affected Irish Setters are being born. Unfortunately some breeders are still mating stock that has not been tested. The committee published a statement on the control of this mutation in the breed advising that as there is a high prevalence of carriers that in order to maintain genetic diversity in the breed, carrier and affected dogs can be used, but only to a clear mate. The principle of the guidelines is that no dog should be produced that will develop PRA rcd4 and become blind.

https://www.irishsetterhealth.info/content/pra-rcd4

Unexpected sudden death

During the year there were reports of a very small number of cases of unexpected sudden death in Irish Setters due to internal bleeding. Dr Ed Hall, our Breed Health Representative, has advised us that post mortem examinations will be essential to identify the prevalence of this emerging problem so that its cause can be investigated with the ultimate aim of finding a solution.

https://www.irishsetterhealth.info/content/saying-goodbye

Health Survey

Early in the year we published the results of the Health Survey that was carried out in 2011 and we are aiming to carry out another survey in 2013 so that we can continue to monitor the health of the breed.

https://www.irishsetterhealth.info/content/2011-breed-health-survey

Bloat.

The survey took longer to materialise than we originally hoped and it was launched in October. Letters were sent out by The Kennel Club to the owners or breeders of all Irish Setters born between 2000 and 2012. Owners were asked to take certain measurements of their dog and give information about whether or not their dog bloated.  The opportunity was taken to widen the scope of questions asked about other health conditions and because of this the Joint Breed Clubs Health Committee decided to leave its proposed health survey until later.  The survey closed at the end of November and we received the following from AHT:

We have surveys for 1956 dogs from 1098 owners. 1703 dogs are currently alive and 251 are dead: 886 males and 1068 females.  This represents a response rate of roughly 15%. The prevalence of bloat among the survey respondents is approximately 13%. This includes bloating without GDV i.e. resolved without surgery or death).  It is hopeful this amount of data should be sufficient  to detect heritability.  We hopefully expect to have some more news halfway through 2014.

CHV

During 2012 Ben Harris, who was at The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital, Cambridge University, collected DNA samples from dams and their puppies for research into a technique, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) that can be used to detect Canine Herpes Virus.  This technique has been used on tissue samples and, in theory, could be applied to nasal swabs from live dogs. Ben’s study is investigating this possibility.  Breeders responded positively to his request for swabs and we await his paper with interest.  Unfortunately the data has not yet been published.

RCD4

The DNA test became available in October 2011 and each month the KC publishes the results of all KC registered dogs, whether clear, carrier or affected. This enables breeeders to use combinations of parents that cannot produce genetically affected puppies which may go blind in later life. By the end of 2013 about 600 dogs had been tested as clear, with about 400 carriers and 84 affecteds.  At the end of 2012, the first full year of the test, the numbers were about 400, 300 and 75 respectively.  As expected the number of dogs being tested each month has dropped considerably as many dogs are tested and in many cases the hereditary status is known.  Unfortunately there are still breeders who are using untested stock but it appears that those who are connected with showing or who are members of breed clubs are not in this group.  The advice still remains to test all stock before mating or know the  RCD4 status and the principle is that no dog should be produced that may develop RCD4 and go blind.  The Joint Breed Clubs Health Committee will continue to monitor results and litters.

http://www.irishsetterhealth.co.uk/content/pra-rcd4

Epilepsy

SEISC and ISBC (Irish Setters Breeders’Club), with the support of the Joint Breed Clubs Health Committee, are actively supporting the collection of DNA for research into epilepsy in Irish Setters being carried out by Professor Hannes Lohi and his team at Helsinki University.  As blood cannot be taken in UK for research purposes without a licence, the team at Helsinki have offered to accept DNA collected by buccal swabs. The swabs are being supplied by Helsinki and we are distributing packs  which include detailed questionnaires required by Professor Lohi’s team. To date we have supplied just under 100 packs, not just to epileptics but to close family members or over 7s who have not fitted. 

https://www.irishsetterhealth.info/content/epilepsy-research-helsinki-university

PRA RCD4

Irish Setters are still being tested for PRA RCD4 although the status of much of the UK breeding stock is now known. As at January 2015 no new affecteds had been identified since September 2014. However, it is very disappointing that there are some breeders who are still breeding without testing their stock when the rcd4 status is not known. The Joint Breed Clubs’ Health Committee, which has been monitoring the situation, has contacted as many of these breeders as possible. It must be noted that most of these breeders are not members of Breed Clubs or those who show.

The Joint Health Group has submitted a proposal to the KC  to introduce a health control scheme for rcd4 and we are hopeful this will be in place in 2015 with a timescale to allow breeders time to test their stock before mating if necessary. It will be imperative that the status of puppies is  clearly identified before they can be registered.

Epilepsy

The Joint Health Group continues to support the Helsinki Project which continues to collect DNA for research into epilepsy in the breed.  Lotta Koskinen, who is a member of Hannes Lohi’s team, provided an update for the Health Group’s meeting at the end of last year and this can be found on this site.

Bloat Survey

Professor Ed Hall, our Breed Health Co-ordinator is in conversation with AHT about the survey.

Herpes Virus

Ben Hall, has informed Ed Hall that he will complete the analysis of the samples collected  during the coming summer.

PRA RCD1

In September, the Health Group issued a statement alerting breeders that a case of RCD1, confirmed by testing at AHT, had recently been reported from mainland Europe. Whilst there are no reported cases of re-occurence in the UK itself the increasing use of dogs and sperm from abroad  for breeding purposes make it important that UK owners are made aware that the mutation still exists.

The fact that there have been no reported carriers or affecteds in the UK since the open register  started in 1995 very clearly demonstrates what can be achieved by health controls and dedicated breeders.

Details about each of the health condtions mentioned above can be found elsewhere on the site.

BVA/KC Health Schemes

The Kennel Club (KC) and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) run health schemes for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and eye diseases which provide scientifically based expert opinion on these inherited conditions. The KC/BVA screening programmes help conscientious breeders to identify dogs that are clinically free of such diseases so that the best possible choices for breeding programmes may be made.

• The BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme
• The BVA/KC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme
• The BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme

Hip Dysplasia Scheme

It is only necessary to hip score once for each dog in its lifetime but only after it is a year old. 

An X-ray is required for this which must be submitted by the owners vet to a KC/BVA panel which reads it and gives individual scores for each hip.  The maximum score for each hip is 53 giving a maximum total of 106 and the lower the score the better the hips.  Each breed has a Breed Mean Score (BMS), this being the average of the total hip scores. The KC encourages breeders to only breed from dogs which have a score lower than the BMS; the BMS for Irish Setters is currently 10. The last published Breed Specific Data covering the period 1st January 2001-31st December 2016  shows that 1091 Irish Setters were tested in those 15 years, with a range from 0 -100. The average over those 15 years is 11 whilst the average of the last 5 years is 10. 

http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk/services/public/mateselect/test/Default.aspx

Elbow Dysplasia Scheme

It is only necessary to elbow grade once for each dog in its lifetime but only after it is a year old. 

Irish Setters are not known for elbow problems and this test is rarely carried out by breeders. An X ray is required which must be submitted by the owners  vet to a KC/BVA panel which reads it and gives individual scores ranging from 0-3.

All results are recorded on the Kennel Club database and published in the Kennel

Club Breed Records Supplement and on progeny registration certificates. 

Eye Scheme

It is recommended that eye examinations should, in general, be conducted annually. Dogs are certified either affected or unaffected for the eye conditions that are known to be inherited in the breed at the time of examination. Re-examination is important as some inherited eye conditions have a later onset.  All results are recorded on the Kennel Club database and published in the Kennel Club Breed Records Supplement and on progeny registration certificates.

DNA Screening Schemes

Irish Setters breeders have 3 DNA tests which are available and these give precise information as to the genetic status of dogs tested with regards to specific diseases. 

Detailed information as to how these tests work can be found in the following article:

DNA Testing and Autosomal Recessive Genes.

PRA rcd1 (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) rod cone dysplasia 1

Since January 1st 2010 no Irish Setter can be registered with the KC unless both its parents are either tested clear or are hereditarily clear from PRA rcd1.  Most Irish Setters in UK are now hereditarily clear and these dogs do not appear on the KC monthly updated lists of dogs tested, which explains why it seems that few breeders are testing dogs. . However, the information can be found on the individual health test results of each dog and their registration papers are clearly marked, as are progeny registration certificates

CLAD (Canine Leucocyte Adhesion Deficiency)

Since 2008 no Irish Setter can be registered with the KC unless both its parents are either tested clear or are hereditarily clear from CLA, except in special circumstances. Most Irish Setters in UK are now hereditarily clear and these dogs do not appear on the KC monthly updated lists of dogs tested, which explains why it seems that few breeders are testing dogs.  However, the information can be found  on the individual health test results of each dog and their registration papers are clearly marked.  

PRA rcd4

This test became available in August 2011 and breeders are still testing their stock and, because we have such a high carrier rate in the breed, carriers are being used for breeding, which is necessary to maintain our gene pool. It is important that all stock is tested before mating, the status of any puppy is known and that no puppies are produced that are genetically affected as they could develop rcd4 and become blind.

The results are shown on the monthly updates on the KC site providing the dog is on the KC database and Irish Setters from abroad are not usually shown. Again hereditarily clear dogs are not shown and that information can be accessed through health test results of individual dogs. 

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/11673/irishsetterpra4clears.pdf

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/11674/irishsetterpra4carriers.pdf

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/12109/irishsetterpra4affecteds.pdf

Hip dysplasia (HD) is a problem that is seen across many breeds of dogs but it is more common in the giant and large breeds.  It is an abnormality of the ball and socket joint of the hip.  The hip is designed so that the ball should fit snugly into the socket allowing it to move freely but securely without causing any damage to the bones.  However, damage may occur if there is looseness in the joint because the bones are not properly formed (e.g. socket is too shallow) and the ligaments do not hold the ball in place.   The bone will become damaged and eroded which may lead to new bone formation as part of the body’s attempt to stabilise the joint.

Signs – If it is not severe, HD may not cause any obvious signs.  If there are signs it may be lameness in one, or both, back legs, or the dog may “bunny hop”, that is move both back legs together, particularly when going up stairs or steps.  There may also be stiffness or pain after resting and eventually the dog may be reluctant to move and will certainly not be able to run and play freely.  In severe cases the dog will often sit down when not moving around rather than stand.  HD usually causes signs first while a dog is still growing and may affect one or both hips. The dog may appear to grow out of the problem as it becomes skeletally mature at 1-2 years of age, only for arthritis to develop and cause pain later in life.

Diagnosis – If you believe your dog has HD the only way to confirm this is by consulting your vet who will recommend an X-ray.  The X-ray should be submitted by your vet to a KC/BVA panel which reads the X-ray and gives individual scores for each hip.  The maximum score for each hip is 53 giving a maximum total of 106 and the lower the score the better the hips.  Each breed has a Breed Mean Score (BMS), this being the average of the total hip scores. The KC encourages breeders to only breed from dogs which have a score lower than the BMS; the BMS for Irish Setters is currently 10. If HD is confirmed then it is important that you let your breeder know.

Veterinary treatment – The treatment for a dog with HD will depend on the severity of the problem and its age.  In many cases drugs can relieve pain and increase mobility but sometimes surgery is required.  It is essential to follow veterinary advice which will include monitoring your pet carefully.  Regular exercise is important and swimming is excellent as it allows the dog to exercise without putting weight on its joints and comfortable, warm, dry bedding is also essential.  

Management – It is generally accepted that HD is a complex issue because environmental factors as well as several genetic factors are involved.  If the parents have poor hips then there is a higher chance of their offspring having poor hips and it is not advisable to breed from a dog with a high hip score.  However, the way your puppy is reared is vital and should your puppy have the genetic predisposition then the environmental factors may well influence the degree of severity of the problem.   One significant factor is rapid growth and rapid weight gain so it is important that your puppy has the correct food for his age; don’t be tempted to let him become fat as obesity can cause problems with the newly formed bones.  There are many puppy foods available which are designed to give your puppy the right amount of nutrition needed and your breeder should have given you a diet sheet.  Don’t be tempted to over-exercise your puppy as this increases the chances of developing hip problems.  It may be fun to watch your puppy try and get up and down the stairs or steps but again, please don’t allow him to do this too often as it can also make matters worse.   Don’t allow him to stand or walk on his back legs until he is mature and don’t encourage him to jump over obstacles.  It is also important not to let your dog jump into or out of a car with a high sill such as in some 4x4s. This sounds as though there are a lot of “don’t’s” but it will be worth taking the trouble not to let him do these things, or at least not in excess.

A hip replacement operation should only be carried when there is no alternative treatment and then only after discussion with a specialist referral vet.

Below is a link to a short video which includes xrays of normal hips and those from a dog with HD:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTwi8TRs6z8

Final report on the Bloat survey conducted by AHT/KC

Received by Joint Breed Clubs’ Health committee

Animal data.

Surveys were completed for 1911 unique animals, from 1091 litters (mean 1.75 animals per litter), with 412 unique sires (mean 4.64 animals per sire) and 848 unique dams (mean 2.25 animals per dam). The breakdown of animals per litter is shown in table 1.

Table 1. Distribution of animals per litter in survey.

Of the 1911 unique animals for which surveys were completed, 1046 were female (54.74%) and 865 were male (45.26%). Table 2 shows cross-tabulation of neuter status with sex.

Table 2. Cross-tabulation of neuter status with sex.

There was a large range of year of birth (yob), from 1991 to 2013 (the year of survey), with 93% of respondent animals born between 2000 and 2011.

Bloat data.

1657 of 1911 animals were reported as never having experienced an episode of bloat (86.71% of animals). 254 animals (13.29%) were reported as having experienced at least one episode of bloat at the time of survey, with details on 472 incidents of bloat supplied. Table 3 shows the distribution of animals and incidents by number of episodes reported.

Of the 472 reported incidents of bloat, just over half resulted in surgery or the death of the animal (50.85%), while 230 episodes were reported to have been resolved spontaneously, by management or medication (48.73%), see table 4. 

Table 3. Distribution of number of reported episodes of bloat per animal.

Table 4. Distribution of treatment/outcome of bloat epsidodes.

Data on multiple cases of bloat per animal were collapsed to generate a data field indicating whether the animal had ever experienced an episode of bloat (0=no, 1=yes) with an accompanying field specifying either age in days at time of the survey (where bloat field = 0), or age in days at earliest episode (where bloat field =1).  This was repeated for bloat where treatment/outcome was specified as surgery or death/put to sleep.

Examination of the prevalence of animals experiencing bloat by yob revealed bias, with the prevalence tending to be higher in earlier yob (table 5), over the majority of the data (yob 2000-12). This bias is consistent with bloat having being more commonly observed in older animals.

The minimum age at survey for animals not having experienced bloat was 176 days, and the maximum was 5454 days (14.94 years). The mean (μ) and standard deviation (σ) age of animals at survey which had not experienced an episode of bloat was: μ= 2218.46 days, σ= 1161.05 days (6.08 years and 3.18 years respectively). The minimum age supplied for an animal experiencing its earliest episode of bloat was 61 days, and the maximum age for an animal experiencing its first episode was 4593 days (12.58 years).  The mean and standard deviation of age at earliest episode were: μ= 1755.30 days, σ= 1116.38 days (4.81 years and 3.06 years respectively).

The minimum age at survey for animals not having experienced bloat resulting in surgery or death was 176 days, and the maximum was 5454 days (14.94 years), with μ= 2222.82 days, σ= 1164.11 days (6.09 years and 3.19 years respectively).The minimum age supplied for an animal experiencing its earliest episode of bloat resulting in surgery or death was 152 days, and the maximum earliest age reported was 4593 days (12.58 years), with μ= 1959.75 days, σ= 1097.18 days (5.37 years and 3.01 years respectively). 

  Table 5. Number and prevalence of animals experiencing bloat by yob

Genetic analysis.

A range of preliminary mixed models were run aiming to estimate the additive genetic variation in developing bloat. The proportion of phenotypic (measurable/observable) variation comprised of additive genetic variation is known as the heritability and describes the influence of genetics on the trait and how it will respond to selection.

Estimates of heritability from these preliminary models ranged from approximately 0.04 to 0.2, varying with the data and model used (data are routinely trimmed to minimise the number of classes of effect needing to be estimated; for example data may be limited to specific yob to avoid requiring the model to estimate effects of yob classes where data is scarce, such as 1991/2/3 etc, see table 5). Binary data (0/1), as used here, suffer a loss of precision in risk description in comparison to more continuous data (for example hip score ranges from 0 to 106), and this tends to lower the estimate of heritability (methods of adjustment are available). Thus, normally we might expect the true heritability to be higher than the estimates quoted above.

However, it was noted that the estimated effects of age from the analysis were extremely large, particularly when yob was also included in the model, and ran counter to previous reports (i.e. the models estimated that risk of bloat decreased as animals got older).  This is a worrying observation, and is consistent with another bias in this data; that there appeared to be a higher prevalence of bloat in younger animals than in older animals. While we may surmise at the cause of this bias, there is no information on what actually causes it.

Therefore, while we have detected a signature of incidence compatible with genetics (estimated in the form of heritability), regrettably we do not think we can claim beyond doubt to have established that there is genetic variation in the likelihood of developing bloat. There are significant biases in the current dataset and the issue is whether these biases would either influence or produce the signature detected as an artefact. Although we feel this is unlikely, the presence of the biases described unfortunately prevent us from claiming to have determined risk of bloat is heritable in the Irish Setter.

Further work.

A further method of data analysis is currently being explored which may be particularly suited to data such as was collected from the survey. Survival analysis models the survival function from data of the age at which animals succumb to disease or death (and also the hazard function as the risk of disease at a particular age), and is a flexible way to incorporate censored data (i.e. animals unaffected or still alive at time of survey). Survival Kit software has been tailored towards animal breeders and allows the estimation of random effects (i.e. genetic variation). Work on using Survival Kit software and running survival analysis is being undertaken.

 While we are unable to state categorically that bloat is heritable in the Irish Setter, the evidence does appear to indicate that genetics could play an important role. Given the prevalence of bloat in this breed, and the concerns of breeders and owners, it may be useful to attempt to ‘extend’ the survey, by building and maintaining a database of details of dogs affected and unaffected by bloat. As the amount of data increases, it becomes easier to reduce the effects of bias seen in the current data set, for example if enough data were available analysis could focus solely on older dogs, reducing the influence of age (and providing a more reliable indicator of ‘lifetime’ risk). Assistance in this undertaking may be available from the Kennel Club.

Breeders may also wish to explore the idea of taking and storing DNA samples from both affected and unaffected dogs alongside a database of information as suggested above. While it is highly unlikely that a mutant variant of a single gene is solely responsible for the development of bloat, genetics could certainly have an important role, as stated above. As such, taking and storing DNA samples may bequeath the breed in future with an extremely useful resource to begin to track down regions of the DNA and maybe even genes which are responsible for increasing or decreasing the risk of developing bloat.  Because there are almost certainly multiple risk factors for bloat, some of which might be genetic, it will be necessary to collect DNA from large numbers (many hundreds) of dogs that have suffered at least one attack of bloat as well as DNA from a similar number of old dogs that have never had bloat before a genetic study is likely to be successful.

January 2017

…………………………………….

INTERIM REPORT

KC/AHT Bloat Survey.

The AHT/KC survey of Irish setters last year, with financial support of the JISBC, was aimed primarily at gathering evidence to prove that bloat is heritable. If proven, DNA samples could then be evaluated for possible genetic markers. However, it was always understood that it was very unlikely to be a simple inheritance (i.e. single gene mutation) pattern. Whilst there may be genetic susceptibility, environmental factors are likely to play a significant role.

Regrettably, although the results raised a suspicion that there is an inherited component to the condition, confounding factors prevented the results reaching statistical significance and therefore proof. The number of respondents and the fact that some of the dogs alive at the time of the survey may go on to develop bloat later in life confounded any clear conclusion.

The recommendation must therefore be that the breed prospectively collects DNA samples from dogs that suffer bloat. Whilst this outcome is disappointing, it is recommended that we work with the AHT to collect DNA samples and pedigrees of dogs when they suffer bloat confirmed by surgery or post mortem.

As you will be aware, the survey also gathered information on a number of other conditions. This data has not yet been analysed, but I have asked Tom Lewis (KC, formerly AHT) to analyse results pertaining to megaoesophagus and epilepsy, where it is more likely that heritability can be proven.

Ed Hall

Chairman, Joint Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Committee

22/3/2015

In 2004 the Kennel Club and British Small Animal Veterinary Association joined with the Animal Health Trust to carry out a survey of pedigree dogs in UK.  A questionnaire was devised and sent to owners to try and identify which health conditions were present in each breed.  The questionnaires were circulated by breed clubs to their members.

The questionnaire was divided into different sections with questions on the health of the owner’s dogs, breeding, causes of death and birth defects in any puppies.

Where the breed response was 15% or greater, breed clubs received detailed feedback on the results which the Kennel Club felt should help with the recognition and control of important conditions in specific breeds.  It further felt that Data gathered would be the baseline against which the success of future control schemes can be measured.

The Irish Setter breed response was 24%.

The following link is to the results of this survey:

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/16534/irish%20setter.pdf

The condition consists of a degeneration of the nerves, which stimulate the muscles of the voice box (larynx).  Paralysis of the larynx is quite common in elderly dogs, especially males, and although the Labrador, Irish Setter and Afghan Hound seem to be particularly susceptible, practically any breed in the middle weight range could be involved.

Signs may go unnoticed because owners expect elderly dogs to slow up and huff and puff a bit when exercising.  One or more of the following are the most frequent signs of laryngeal paralysis:

• Noisy laboured breathing
• A moist retching cough
• Changed bark
• Reduced exercise ability
• Episodes of extreme breathing difficulty, especially when exercising in hot weather.

Collapse and death can occur if the loose vocal folds block the airway completely.

If you believe your pet has this problem it is necessary to see your vet to get the diagnosis confirmed. Treatment is by operation to fix the voice-box in a safe position.  In spite of the age of many dogs subjected to surgery, the results are generally excellent.

Following the operation, the dog may be hospitalised for between two to four days, although dogs that bark excessively may be sent home earlier if there is concern they will tear the stitches.

Diet and exercise should be modified for the first six weeks after surgery as advised by your vet.

Although an immediate improvement of the respiratory distress may be evident, the full benefits of the surgery will not be seen for a couple of weeks, when the internal swelling has gone.

Most dogs cough to clear their throats to begin with, following ‘tie back’ surgery.  This may be quite frequent in the first week or so, particularly after eating or drinking.  The coughing should get less frequent, although a few dogs can cough once or twice a day indefinitely.

Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) has only become a potential problem in UK in the last 15 or so years and affected dogs are now seen as far north as Scotland. It is generelly felt that our warmer climate is the reason for its spread.  It has a complicated life cycle and dogs eating the snail or slug is part of the cycle. In dogs, the worm usually lives in the blood vessels passing from the heart to the lungs, but it can migrate to other sites including the eyes and brain. It does not affect humans and cannot be transmitted to you through your dog. 

Dogs that are at risk of this parasitic worm are those that either eat slugs or snails deliberately, or eat grass and accidentally ingest small slugs and snails.  Younger dogs seem to be more likely to get infected but it is not unknown for older dogs to suffer.

Vets will advise lungworm treatment as part of your dog’s health regime because if it is not treated it can lead to death.  If you have one dog that is affected it is sensible to treat all your dogs.

Symptoms include:

Coughing

Breathing problems

Weight loss

Vomiting

Diarrhoea

Persistent bleeding from cuts

Depression

Not wanting to exercise

Weakness

Paralysis

If you know you have snails or slugs in your garden:

Don’t leave water bowls outside

Don’t leave toys and chews outside

Be particular about removing dog faeces daily

Don’t assume your usual worming tablets treat lungworm

The oesophagus is the muscular tube that takes food from the mouth to the stomach.  This is done by waves of muscular contractions, called peristalsis, which push the food along the tube.

Megaoesophagus (MO) refers to a large, flabby oesophagus which makes it difficult or impossible for food to reach the stomach because the peristaltic action does not happen as it should, probably because the nerves are not functioning properly.  Food cannot enter the stomach normally, but instead simply sits in the enlarged oesophagus and is eventually regurgitated.

Some cases of MO in Irish Setters are congenital, i.e. present at birth, but it may not be noticed that the pup has any problem until it is weaned when he will regurgitate food through the mouth and maybe fluids through the nose.  It may cough and make gurgling, rattling sounds. An affected pup generally will not thrive and will probably be smaller than his littermates.

MO can also be acquired later in life (about 4 years of age onwards) with similar clinical signs and poor prognosis.

The signs of MO are as follows:

Regurgitation may be considered the most typical sign of MO.  Weight loss with possible muscle wasting and a failure to thrive with a general weakness are common.  Increased swallowing motions with excessive drooling and dehydration are possible.  A ravenous appetite but with stunted growth or weight loss are usual, as is coughing, difficulty in breathing and pneumonia.

Regurgitation is different from vomiting:  Vomiting occurs when the contents of the stomach are expelled by muscular contractions of the abdomen.  Regurgitation is purely the return of food that has not reached the stomach and, as such, retching does not happen.  As it happens very quickly and with little effort littermates or mum may clean up the results before the breeder realizes it has happened.

Dogs with MO may not exhibit all of these signs, or even any of them to a significant degree.  Sometimes the only signs may be repeated bouts of aspiration pneumonia, or a wet cough that fails to clear up.  Some pups with congenital MO can grow out of the disorder and go on to enjoy a normal quality of life but others will be significantly affected and need careful food management for the rest of their lives.  If the problem is severe, however, the pup will not be able to get enough food and will have to be euthanased. Acquired disease in adult dogs never resolves.

A definitive diagnosis can be obtained by giving a barium meal.  In a normal pup, the barium will move into and through the stomach, but in the dog with MO, most of it will be seen collected in the oesophageal pouch in front of the stomach.

Another congenital reason for regurgitation is a vascular ring anomaly such as persistent right aortic arch.  Foetal blood vessels that should have disappeared at birth create a fibrous band that constricts the oesophagus.  This causes the oesophagus above the constriction to expand as the food cannot pass through the constricted area.  If caught in time, the vascular ring can be cut and the oesophagus often returns to normal.  Delaying surgery may cause irreparable oesophageal damage.

Oesophageal dilation and vascular ring anomalies are both believed to have a hereditary component because there is a breed disposition and a probable family predisposition.

If you believe your pet has MO then you will need veterinary advice.  If confirmed it is important to let your breeder know as well as the secretary of one of the breed clubs as information is being collected on the problem.

 Follow the next link to an excellent article on MO with clear X rays of a dog without MO and one with MO. There is also a very clear visual of a dog with MO trying to eat

 http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body megaesphagus.html/

Sometimes MO doesn’t happen until later in life, maybe through trauma or being associated with other health problems but this form is not generally a problem with Irish Setters.

Can you help?

If you breed a litter with MO or your puppy is diagnosed with MO please let the Breed Health Committee know so we can monitor the prevalence in the breed.

What is the ideal treatment ?

In an ideal world the PSS is tied off (ligated) surgically, and this can be curative. The success rate varies between 50 and 85% depending on the type of shunt and surgical expertise. At Bristol Vet School, we can also now attempt to treat intra-hepatic shunts by placing an occluding coil via a venous catheter. There is still a risk with this new procedure but even riskier open surgery is not required

In some cases, ligation is not possible, for either medical or financial reasons. These patients are managed medically to control the signs of hepatic encephalopathy. Medical treatment merely reduces the production of toxins and does not correct the shunt.

What can go wrong ?

The aim of surgery is to completely close the shunt. Regrettably it is not always that straightforward:

• The shunt may be impossible to find
• There may be inadequate veins going to the liver (or even none) so that complete closure of the PSS causes excessive back-pressure on the intestines. In mild cases this may cause temporary accumulation of fluid (ascites). In severe cases it can lead to death of the patient, and so the surgery has to be reversed.
• There is a risk of serious haemorrhage, especially with intra-hepatic shunts, which may have to be dissected free of surrounding liver tissue. Placement of a coil by venous access is less risky but not widely available.

If the shunt is found but complete closure is not possible, a partial ligation may be performed. Alternatively a sterile cellophane band placed around the shunt, in order to cause scarring and gradual closure to allow time for the vessels to the liver to regrow.

What is medical management ?

The aim is to reduce intestinal production and absorption of toxins such as ammonia, and so reduce signs of hepatic encephalopathy. Medical treatment is indicated for:

• For short-term stabilisation of patients before surgery
• Patients where ligation of the shunt fails because of a lack of normal vessels going to the liver to cope with the revised blood flow
• Patients where surgery is declined for whatever reason.

There are three lines of treatment

1.Dietary management

A restricted protein diet with carbohydrates as the main energy source should be fed. Veterinary diets such as RCW Hepatic Support or Hill’s l/d are suitable. Alternatively a home-prepared diet consisting of equal parts of boiled rice, pasta or potatoes with low-fat cottage cheese may be fed. IIf blood proteins are low, protein should not be restricted severely, and other methods must be used.

2. Lactulose

This synthetic sugar is a laxative that helps remove the intestinal contents rapidly before significant fermentation occurs. It also decreases the absorption of ammonia. The effect is quite variable, and the dose has to be tailored until the patient produces 2-3 soft motions per day.

3.Oral antibiotics

These help reduce the number of ammonia producing bacteria in the gut lumen.

Treatment is tailored by trial and error to each individual patient until signs of hepatic encephalopathy are controlled. Mild cases may do well on dietary management alone, whilst severe cases may require all three medications.

NB. Cases of PSS must be referred by their vet to other centres offering surgery (including Bristol Veterinary School); owners cannot make arrangements directly.

If your Irish Setter is diagnosed with a liver shunt, which is very rare in the breed, then please let your breeder know.

One of the health problems people associate with Irish Setters is PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) which is a term for several different forms of hereditary conditions which lead to blindness and which is found in many breeds of dogs.  This was a major problem for the breed in the 1940’s and 1950’s and was the greatest threat to the breed.  This eye condition leads to gradually worsening vision and eventual total blindness in both eyes.  The condition is hereditary and is carried by a simple autosomal recessive gene.

The breed now has a DNA test for PRA rcd 1 mutation. Since the KC started its open register in 1995 no dogs that have been tested since then have been diagnosed with PRA rcd1 in UK.  This is an early onset form of the disease, puppies typically being diagnosed from about 6 weeks and being totally blind by about 12 months, with night blindness being noticed first.  Owners may notice that the dog is bumping into things in the dark or be unwilling to go outside.

By using the DNA test effectively this particular PRA is no longer a problem for Irish Setters in UK and since January 1st 2010 the Kennel Club will only register Irish Setters that are proven to be clear of PRA-rcd 1 (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), or hereditarily clear of PRA -rcd1 e.g. both parents are clear. This includes imported Irish Setters as well.  Do not buy a puppy unless both parents are clear.  This is clearly shown on the KC registration papers of the puppy. Remember both parents need to be clear not just one of them.

Why bother to have a PRA rcd 1 clear puppy? 

There are several reasons why this is important; the first being that if a pup is clear then it will never get PRA rcd1 and if you decide to breed then its puppies will never get the problem.  Responsible breeders have worked very hard to eradicate PRA rcd1 from the breed in UK and want to keep it that way.  Also, although you may not be thinking of breeding from your pet at the moment, you may change your mind later and unless both parents are clear from PRA rcd1 then the puppies cannot be registered with the Kennel Club.

In 2014 we were advised that an Irish Setter in mainland Europe had been confirmed as being PRA-rcd1 affected and was going blind. In UK it is very easy to become complacent and believe this problem no longer exists but it obviously does. 

Late onset PRA Blindness

Although PRA rcd1 is no longer a problem it is suggested you have your dog’s eyes tested at an eye clinic every two years, as there are other forms of PRA being identified.

Late Onset PRA (LOPRA) which, as the name suggests, does not show until the dog is older, has been identified in the breed. A mutation known as rcd4 has now been found, and a DNA test is available (NB. rcd2 and rcd3 are mutations found in other breeds).  Time of onset of blindness is variable but typically later in life. 

Recently a mid-onset PRA has been identified, with clinical signs of PRA developing in middle age. The genetic mutation has not yet been identified and research is ongoing.

Please look at “Spotlight on” to see the latest announcements about PRA rcd4 which is the mutation recently identified and for which a DNA test became available from 1st August 2011.

If you believe your Irish Setter has vision problems consult a veterinary ophthalmologist for a diagnosis of PRA. If it is confirmed then let the health representative of a breed club and your breeder know immediately.  They will be able to advise you what to do next as a DNA test will be needed to confirm if it is PRA rcd4. 

Any Irish Setter with suspected sight problems can have DNA testing free-of-charge if the sample sent to the AHT is accompanied by a certificate from a veterinary ophthalmologist confirming PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) which is neither rcd1 or rcd4.

The Kennel Club PRA rcd4 Register is updated at the beginning of each month

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/3915

For pedigrees go to www.hooley-irish-setters.co.uk/search.html 

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DNA testing scheme for Irish Setters – PRA rcd4

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DNA Testing for PRA RCD4 is available

http://www.ahtdnatesting.co.uk/

We advise that all breeding stock is tested before mating. 

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Following a meeting between Professor Ed Hall, Chairman of the Breed Health Committee, Dr Cathryn Mellersh. Canine Genetics Research Group Leader from AHT and Dr Jeff Sampson, Genetics consultant to the Kennel Club we have been advised by Ed Hall that in addition to the 7 dogs which have been identified with PRA rcd4 there are 3 more having “mid-onset” PRA and which do not have rcd1 or rcd4. 

Any Irish Setter with suspected sight problems can have DNA testing free-of-charge if the sample sent to the AHT is accompanied by a certificate from a veterinary ophthalmologist confirming PRA       (Progressive Retinal Atrophy).

To get your dog tested for PRA by an ophthalmologist you will need to see your vet first and ask for a referral to an eye specialist.

10/8/2011

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Joint Irish Setter Breed Clubs

Statement on the control of the rcd4 mutation in Irish Setters

The Joint Irish Setter Breed Clubs (JISBC) have drawn up the following guidelines for the control of the recently discovered rcd4 mutation which causes Late Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy (LOPRA) in Irish Setters. Whilst it should be stressed that clinical signs of LOPRA usually appear after the age of 9 years, the JISBC still believe it to be a welfare issue, although it is noted that many dogs can cope with blindness.

Data from the Animal Health Trust so far suggest the prevalence of carriers of the rcd4 mutation (i.e. heterozygotes) in the breed is about 42% and therefore the proposed guidelines are considered appropriate at this time. The JISBC recognises the need to maintain genetic diversity within the breed and does not yet recommend a complete ban on breeding using carrier or affected dogs.

However, the principle of these guidelines is that no dogs should be produced that will develop PRA and become blind, and therefore all members of the JISBC agree that:

     1. All caring and resonsible breeders will test their stock before planning a mating.

• Any rumour and supposition about a dog’s genetic status should be ignored; DNA-testing should be undertaken.
• As DNA-testing is now available, ‘hereditarily clear’ dogs will be produced. However such dogs should still be tested before being used for breeding because of the potential difficulty in proving parentage.
• If the rcd4 status of any stud dog, or its semen, is unknown then the bitch to be mated must be tested and found CLEAR.                                                                                    

2. AFFECTED dogs (i.e. homozygous for the rcd4 mutation) should never be mated with other AFFECTED dogs as all progeny will be AFFECTED.

Thus the following are recommendations about potential matings that the JISBC consider acceptable at this time:

• CLEAR x CLEAR matings are encouraged.
• CLEAR x CARRIER* matings: progeny will, on average, be CLEAR (50%) or CARRIERS (50%) and should be DNA‑tested before breeding.
• CLEAR x AFFECTED* matings: all progeny will be CARRIERS.

* It is recommended that any use of AFFECTED and CARRIER stud-dogs is given serious, cautious consideration by both stud-dog owners and breeders before planning a mating.

Purchasers of any dogs produced by CLEAR x CARRIER and CLEAR x AFFECTED matings should be advised that these dogs will not develop PRA rcd-4, but should not be used for breeding unless tested.

All breeders should note that AFFECTED x CARRIER or CARRIER x CARRIER matings may produce some AFFECTED dogs.

1. CARRIER x CARRIER matings will produce, on average, 25% AFFECTED progeny.
2. AFFECTED x CARRIER matings will produce, on average, 50% AFFECTED progeny.

Purchasers of any dogs produced by such matings should be advised that some of these dogs may develop PRA rcd-4 and should not be used for breeding unless DNA-tested.

The JISBC will continue to monitor the prevalence of the rcd4 mutation within the breed. However it is aware that a further PRA mutation that causes blindness at an earlier age (so-called mid-onset PRA) may be present in the breed but has yet to be confirmed and characterised genetically. Thus control measures for rcd4 may need to be modified if this new form of PRA is prevalent, as the earlier onset of blindness clearly has an even greater welfare implication.

Signed on behalf of the following breed clubs, which endorse and support these recommendations

• Belfast & District Irish Setter Club
• The Irish Setter Association England
• The Irish Setter Breeders Club
• The  Irish Setter Club of Scotland
• The  Irish Setter Club of Wales
• The  Midlands Irish Setter Society
• North-East of England Irish Setter Club
• The  South of England Irish Setter Club

Professor E J Hall

Chairman, Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Coordinator Group

29 February 2012

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Statement from The Animal Health Trust   

Progressive Retinal Atrophy in the Irish Setter

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a well-recognised inherited condition that many breeds of dog are predisposed to.  The condition is characterised by bilateral degeneration of the retina which causes progressive vision loss that culminates in total blindness.  There is no treatment for PRA, of which several genetically distinct forms are recognised, each caused by a different mutation in a specific gene.  The various forms of PRA are typically breed-specific, with clinically affected dogs of the same breed usually sharing an identical mutation.  Clinically affected dogs of different breeds, however, usually have different mutations, although PRA-mutations can be shared by several breeds.

A mutation for an early-onset form of PRA, known as rcd1, was identified in Irish Setters as long ago as 1993, and is well-documented to affect dogs from a few weeks of age.   More recently dogs have been identified with a seemingly different form of PRA that affects dogs later in their lives and is known to be different from rcd1.  This alternative form became known as “LOPRA” – for Late-Onset PRA.  Unlike rcd1, where all dogs became affected at almost exactly the same age the age of onset of dogs with LOPRA varied, from a few years of age (2-3 yo) up to old age (10-11 yo).  It was unclear whether these dogs all shared the same form of PRA or whether there were genetically distinct forms of PRA segregating in this breed. 

Mutation Identified

In 2011 geneticists working in the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust identified a recessive mutation that is associated with the development of LOPRA in the Gordon Setter.  Owners of Gordon Setters with LOPRA report that their affected dogs develop night blindness in the first instance, which is indicative of a rod-cone degeneration, so we have termed this mutation rcd4 (for rod-cone degeneration 4) to distinguish it from other, previously described, forms of rod-cone degeneration.

Following our work with rcd4 in the Gordon Setter we have found some Irish Setters that have been diagnosed with PRA also carry two copies of the rcd4 mutation.  As a result the AHT will make the rcd4 DNA test available to Irish Setters, from August 1^st 2011.  The DNA test we are offering examines the DNA from each dog being tested for the presence or absence of this precise mutation and is thus a ‘mutation-based test’ and not a ‘linkage-based test’. 

Other Forms of PRA

The research we have carried out to identify the rcd4 mutation has revealed that there are at least three forms of PRA segregating in the Irish Setter; rcd1, rcd4 and an additional, third form, that has yet to be identified.  We know there is a third form of PRA because of the ten dogs with LOPRA, whose DNA we have been sent to analyse, only 7 have two copies of the rcd4 mutation.  The remaining 3 dogs do not carry either the rcd1 or rcd4 mutations, meaning their PRA must be due to another, as yet unidentified, mutation.  There is some evidence that this third form of PRA has, on average, an earlier age of onset than rcd4, but we need to examine more dogs before we can be confirm this.

The age at which dogs with the rcd4 mutation develop PRA seems to vary and we know about dogs as young as 4yo and as old as 10yo, that have been diagnosed with LOPRA, and that carry two copies of rcd4 mutation.  But it is important to remember that the age at which a dog is diagnosed with PRA can vary according to circumstances, and is not necessarily the same age at which it started to develop PRA.  For example, a dog whose PRA is detected at a routine eye examination will have an earlier age of diagnosis than a dog whose PRA was only detected once it started to lose its sight.  It is also possible that the dogs that have developed PRA very early also carry the mutation for the third, unidentified, form of PRA (as well as rcd4) and it is this ‘mid onset’ mutation that has caused them to develop PRA at a relatively young age.  More research will be required to understand the variability in age of onset more fully.

Our research indicates rcd4 is a common form of PRA among Irish Setters and the development of this test therefore enables breeders to slowly decrease the frequency of an important form of PRA in their lines.  However, because we know that at least one other form of LOPRA exists within the breed, we cannot guarantee that any dog will not develop PRA, even if they are clear of the rcd4 mutation.  

Rcd4 DNA Test

Breeders using the rcd4 DNA test will be sent results identifying their dog as belonging to one of three categories.  In all cases the terms ‘normal’ and ‘mutation’ refer to the position in the DNA where the rcd4 mutation is located; it is not possible to learn anything about any other region of DNA from the rcd4 DNA test. 

CLEAR: these dogs have two normal copies of DNA.  Clear dogs will not develop PRA as a result of the rcd4 mutation, although we cannot exclude the possibility they might develop PRA due to other mutations they might carry that are not detected by this test.

CARRIER: these dogs have one copy of the mutation and one normal copy of DNA. These dogs will not develop PRA themselves as a result of the rcd4 but they will pass the mutation on to approximately 50% of their offspring.  We cannot exclude the possibility that carriers might develop PRA due to other mutations they might carry that are not detected by this test. 

GENETICALLY AFFECTED: these dogs have two copies of the rcd4 mutation and will almost certainly develop PRA during their lifetime.  The average age of diagnosis for dogs with rcd4 is 10 yo, although there is considerable variation within the breed. 

Advice

Our research has demonstrated that the frequency of the rcd4 mutation in Irish Setters is high and approximately 30-40% of dogs might be carriers. The mutation is recessive which means that all dogs can be bred from safely but carriers and genetically affected dogs should only be bred to DNA tested, clear dogs.  About half the puppies from any litter that has a carrier parent will themselves be carriers and any dogs from such litters that will be used for breeding should themselves be DNA tested prior to breeding so appropriate mates can be selected.  All puppies that have a genetically affected parent will be carriers.

It is advisable for all breeding dogs to have their eyes clinically examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist prior to breeding and throughout their lives so that any cases of PRA caused by additional mutations can be detected and that newly emerging conditions can be identified.

20/7/2011

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PRA rcd4 (LOPRA)    Some questions answered

(please read this alongside the AHT announcement)

I have been asked a number of questions on this subject, and the following answers try to throw light on the current situation.

1. What does it mean to be genetically affected but not yet clinically affected by PRA rcd4?

Unlike PRA rcd1 and CLAD, which can be seen in very young puppies, PRA rcd4 may not be visible to the owner or even to the vet or ophthalmologist until later in life.  The dog is genetically affected from birth and a DNA test for PRA rcd4 will show this; however the clinical signs of deteriorating eyesight will not be present until sometime later in life and, in fact in a few cases, may never occur.  The dog has the defective genes from birth although the clinical signs are not present and this must be understood when considering a breeding programme.

1. Explain the meaning of “homozygous for PRA rcd4”.

This is frequently referred to as having “two copies of the mutant gene” and thus being genetically affected.

In layman’s terms this means that the defective gene is inherited from both parents.    

If the defective gene is inherited from only one parent the dog will be a “carrier” of the condition  which means the defective gene can be passed to the offspring but this dog will never have this condition.  This is typical of a recessive mutant gene and most of us are familiar with it in PRA rcd1 and CLAD.

1. Remind me what happens if an affected dog is mated to a clear.

AFFECTED to CLEAR >>>>>>>>>>  100% CARRIERS

AFFECTED to CARRIER >>>>>>>>> 50% AFFECTED; 50% CARRIERS

CARRIER to CLEAR >>>>>>>>>>>> 50% CARRIERS; 50% CLEAR

CARRIER to CARRIER >>>>>>>>>>  25% AFFECTED; 50% CARRIERS; 25% CLEAR

1. How do we know there might be 30-40% of dogs in our breed that are carriers?

A random check was performed on a large number of DNA samples stored at the AHT and this provided the information.  The large number of samples used by the AHT means that the proportion of carriers for that sample is likely to reflect the proportion throughout our breed.

1. Will we be told the individual results from this test run?

No.  The AHT have permission to use the samples stored for research purposes i.e. in the development of a new test, and to provide a statistical analysis of the results but not to provide individual dog’s names or results.

The way forward is to test the dogs you own now, particularly your breeding stock, and to move forward from this.

The advice so far is to avoid producing genetically affected puppies – if you find you have an affected dog or a carrier with which you wish to breed only breed to a clear dog.

1. What do we know about another form of LOPRA that exists in the breed?

We know there is a third form of PRA in the breed as 3 dogs have been clinically identified as having PRA but their DNA shows that they do not have PRA rcd1 or PRA rcd4.  It probably occurs at a younger age then PRA rcd4.  It may be the cause of blindness in the younger dogs that also have the PRA rcd4 mutation.  Further research will be needed to find the mutation if more cases are found.  

1. How many dogs so far (July 2011) are homozygous for PRA rcd4?

We only know of 7, 6 of which have been named by their owners.  I understand that there were very few in the research run but we have not been given further information on this.  I do, however, have a personal story to tell as a result of this research run.

My experience has been with my old dog, Willow (Kirkavagh Karamita of Follidown), until now referred to in newsletters but not named because of the uncertainty involved in her condition at the time.  During the research she was found to have two copies of (i.e. homozygous for) the PRA rcd-4 mutation and she was blind and she was 13 years old.  This seemed to confirm the research programme but on examination by two highly respected ophthalmologists she was found not to have LOPRA.  Her blindness was caused by typical problems of old age – some cataract and sclerosis of the lens.  If she had lived longer she may have developed LOPRA but, very sadly, she died in April.   ( Incidentally, she coped very well in her familiar environment with her blindness but did need extra help and consideration because of her condition.)

Most of you will have read about her already but it provides an important case study and a good reason not to panic if the DNA test shows your dog to be homozygous for PRA rcd-4.  Your dog may never go blind despite having the genetic mutation.

If you have any further questions, please email me and I will try to help.

Gillian Townsend

ISAE Health Representative.

Email: townsend@waitrose.com

*********************

 A statement from the Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Coordinators Committee concerning

Late Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy (LOPRA)

Recently, DNA samples from Irish setters diagnosed with Late Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy (LOPRA) have been submitted to the Animal Health Trust for genetic analysis. So far several dogs have been diagnosed with two copies of the rcd-4 mutation (i.e. homozygous). This means these dogs are clinically affected with a condition that has previously been described in Gordon setters.

The Animal Health Trust is hoping to release a DNA test for rcd-4 in Irish setters in the near future and when it is available the scale of the problem in the breed can be assessed and an appropriate strategy to eradicate the condition can begin. Until that time the Committee advises against panic and ill‑informed rumour.

Whilst the recognition of LOPRA in the breed is a serious and unwanted development, we should take heart that previous genetic problems (e.g. PRA rcd-1, CLAD) in the breed have been conquered by dedicated breeders implementing controlled breeding schemes, and there is no reason to doubt an eradication programme, when launched, will be successful.

Professor Ed Hall

Chairman, Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Coordinators Committee

**************

Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Coordinators Committee

Late Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy (LOPRA)

Following the discovery of Irish setters clinically affected with LOPRA in association with two copies of the rcd-4 gene (i.e. homozygous), so far the following six dogs (in alphabetical order) have been identified as affected.

• Joben Midnight Memories
• Joben Midnight Moments
• Konakakela Red Admiral at Ixia
• Millcroft the Moon’s Shadow
• Starchelle Buddy Holly
• Wickenberry Capsicum

These names are being published with the permission of their owners/breeders in a spirit of openness in order to alert responsible owners and breeders and to prevent the propagation of unfounded rumours.

We await an announcement from the Animal Health Trust on when the rcd-4 test will be made available.

Professor Ed Hall

Chairman, Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Coordinators Committee

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus which needs immediate veterinary attention.  If not treated it will be fatal.  Any unspayed bitch can be affected although it is usually found in older bitches and signs are generally noticed 6-8 weeks after her season. If a bitch has had puppies it will stop her from getting a true pyometra but she can still suffer a uterine infection.

Causes.

When the bitch is in season there are hormonal changes to the uterus which is preparing itself for puppies.  She has a bloody discharge, which is normal, and her cervix, which is normally closed, opens slightly to release this discharge before mating takes place.  The open cervix can allow bacteria to enter the uterus which has become an ideal breeding place because repeated hormonal changes during each season have altered its lining.

Open or closed pyometra.

Sometimes the uterine cervix remains slightly open and this is called an open pyometra and is usually easier for the owner to notice as there will be a foul smelling discharge which is totally unlike her usual discharge.  If the uterus closes completely this is a closed pyometra and there is no obvious discharge.  This makes it more difficult for an owner to realise there is a problem and by then the infection could be severe.  This is why it is really important to watch your bitch closely 6 – 8 weeks after her season to see if there are any symptoms.

Signs.

In both open and closed pyometra some of the following may be noticed but don’t wait to see them all.  Sometimes all you notice is that your girl is “off colour” and you can’t be certain as to what is wrong.  That is enough to make an appointment with your vet, especially if it is 6- 8 weeks after her season.

• Listless and depressed
• Drinking a lot of water
• Loss of appetite
• Distension of the stomach: particularly in a closed pyometra
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Fever
• Dehydration

 With an open pyometra you may also see:

• Cleaning herself constantly under her tail
• Pus on her bedding and on her tail
• Foul smell from the pus

Treatment.

The usual and most effective way to treat pyometra is surgery to remove the womb and ovaries and this is probably what your vet will recommend.  The spread of infection during the operation is a great worry and it is likely that antibiotics will also be given. However, there is a new treatment that is now available which means an operation may not be necessary. 

It is important that you watch your bitch closely 6 – 8 weeks after her season as that is the time when you will see the signs.  The earlier she is treated the better the chances of her survival.

This link is to Wikipedia which has photographs but it is not for the squeamish:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyometra

The following is a link to a scientific paper Canine Pyometra: Pathogenesis, Therapy and Clinical Cases presented by Prof. Stefano Romagnoli, University of Padua, Italy

http://www.vin.com/proceedings/Proceedings.plx?CID=WSAVA2002&PID=2686

The loss of a beloved companion can be the worst part of owning a pet. And when that tragedy is because of an unexpected and premature death through illness, the feelings of loss and grief are magnified. At such times one often feels that one’s pet has suffered enough and burial or cremation will allow closure. At that time the thought of a post mortem examination is anathema to many owners.

Regrettably, nothing is ever going to bring one’s pet back, but some solace can be gained by finding out the exact cause of an unexpected death. However, even more importantly, other dogs can benefit in the future. Whilst a post mortem examination clearly cannot help your pet, it can help vets understand diseases and ultimately learn something that may make a difference to the next dog to suffer the same condition. In addition, dogs specifically donated to Vet Schools provide essential training for tomorrow’s vets.

Yet even knowing the benefits that a post mortem examination can bring, many still will not contemplate this for fears that their pets will be experimented upon and that their organs will be retained for research. As someone who works in a Vet School, I can assure you that this does not happen; animals are treated with the same respect as if they were alive.

Post mortem examinations undertaken for legal cases do incur significant costs, and your local practice may charge for the examination. However, many Vet Schools will provide a post mortem service at a reduced cost or even for free for donated animals; they may only charge if you want a full written report. Unfortunately after a post mortem examination, release of the body for burial at home is not allowed because of the risk of infections; but individual cremation with the return of ashes can be arranged, although this service does incur a cost.

Finally, the JISBC Health Committee has become aware of a number of cases of unexpected sudden death in Irish setters due to internal bleeding. Post mortem examinations will be essential to identify the prevalence of this emerging problem, and to investigate its cause, with the ultimate aim of finding a solution. Recently reported cases have occurred in Scotland, and Dr Tennant at the Scottish Agricultural College has said they are willing to provide post mortem examinations at minimal cost on setters that have died suddenly.

So whilst saying goodbye is always hard, please think whether some good can come out of the loss of your pet by considering a post mortem examination.

Prof Ed Hall, JISBC Health Coordinator

Anecdotally it is known in the breed there is a chance that a bitch that has been spayed will develop spay incontinence and this is supported by the following research:

Incontinence is mentioned in the KC Breed Health Survey 2004 and appears in the list of the most common specific conditions reported.

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/16534/irish%20setter.pdf

The key findings included in more recent research published in September 2017 indicate: 

• Urinary incontinence affects 3.14% of bitches overall, but affects over 15% of bitches in some high-risk breeds 
• High-risk breeds include the Irish Setter, Dobermann, Bearded Collie, Rough Collie and Dalmatian 
• Bitches weighing above average for their breed had 1.31 times the odds of urinary incontinence compared with bitches weighing below average
• Older bitches were also predisposed, with bitches aged between 9 and 12 years old having 3.86 times the odds compared to younger bitches
• Neutered bitches had 2.23 times the odds compared with entire bitches

RVC veterinary epidemiologist and VetCompass researcher Dr Dan O’Neill said: “This urinary incontinence study has uncovered dramatic breed predispositions that have previously been hidden to vets and owners. Overall, about 3% of bitches were affected but this rose to over 30% in the Irish Setter and over 20% in the Dobermann with many other breeds also predisposed. Vets can now use these results to alert owners to typical clinical signs in order to ensure earlier treatment and better outcomes. The study also suggests increased risk in heavier and neutered bitches. Following on from this study, a VetCompass Masters project supported by BSAVA PetSavers is working to unravel these associations in order to identify potential preventive strategies, especially in those highly predisposed breeds.”  

https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/news/incontinence-in-bitches-huge-breed-predispositions-shown-in-vetcompass-study-2

In 2018, in her critical review of acquired urinary incontinence in neutered female dogs, Gemma Gormley B.Sc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing states:

Based upon this review, veterinary nurses should be advising owners that neutering females does carry the risk of AUI development, caused by hormonal changes affecting bladder function.

https://studentjournal.hartpury.ac.uk/2018/02/01/critical-review-of-acquired-urinary-incontinence-in-neutered-female-dogs/

A  further study published in 2019 “Associations between neutering and early onset urinary incontinence in UK bitches under primary veterinary care” also indicates that spaying may affect urinary incontinence in bitches and Irish Setters are one of the breeds mentioned.

The conclusion of the study states:

Neutering itself and age at neuter were identified as important risk factors associated with early‐onset UI. Neutering was associated with an increased hazard of early‐onset UI from date of birth. Bitches neutered before 6 months of age had increased hazard of early‐onset UI diagnosis within the first 2 years following neutering. The decision to neuter a bitch is based on many factors, not just UI risk alone. However, the contribution to decision‐making driven by UI may need to be greater for the high‐risk breeds and bitches with larger bodyweights. The results of this study suggest that early‐age neuter (<6 months) should be carefully considered, particularly in high‐risk breeds and bitches with larger bodyweights (or larger projected bodyweights), unless there are major other reasons for performing it.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6916619/

To understand auto immune diseases it helps to have a basic understanding of the immune system itself.

The immune system is the protective mechanism for the body and is highly complicated.  There are basically two parts to it.  The first is the purely physical, being the barriers such as the skin or mucous membranes or the chemical, such as the acids in the stomach which destroy bacteria.

Should this level of defence fail, which it does for any number of reasons, then the body’s next level of defence will kick in.

When a body is invaded, for the first time, let’s say by kennel cough, once the body has realised there is an invader a series of reactions will take place which will ultimately kill off the virus.  However, this does not happen immediately as it takes time for the body to recognise the invader and symptoms for the illness will occur.  Once the invader is destroyed, the body switches off the immune reaction.  Should the kennel cough return later the immune response will be much quicker as the cells responsible will recognise the invader and react more quickly. 

However it is important that the body recognises the difference between itself and the invader, so it only attacks the invader.  To allow this to happen, the dog’s cells have their own set of molecules on their surface, which the immune system recognises.  The invader, on the other hand, has a different set, called antigens, which the immune system recognises as different, and which, when recognised, will cause the immune system to launch an attack on the invader, whilst not attacking its own cells.

It is essential that both the recognition and discrimination parts are working properly for the immune system to function as it should.  Usually it works well but sometimes it goes wrong, either by overreacting or not reacting at all and sometimes it reacts to its own body cells and this is called autoimmunity.

Click on the following link for a more detailed description of the immune system.

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2101&aid=957

Autoimmune Disorders

There are a number of auto immune diseases, of which some are detailed below. As far as we know there are no statistics available for auto immune diseases in Irish Setters but it is believed the incidence is very low.  However, it is useful to be aware of them as prompt diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.

It is generally accepted that auto immune disease is highly complex and there will probably not be one single factor involved.  Whilst a litter may have the predisposition to auto immune disease, through its genes, it may never manifest itself, or different littermates may develop different auto immune diseases.  There is a highly complex relationship between the genetics, which in itself is not simple as it is believed that several genes are involved, and the environment, possibly including stress, vaccinations and other variables.

It is accepted by many people that there is a genetic factor and therefore it is recommended that should a dog or bitch have an auto immune disease it should not be used for breeding and, ideally, parents of dogs which develop auto immune diseases should not be breed from again. If your Irish Setter is diagnosed with an autoimmune disease then let a breed club know as well as your breeder.

If you are concerned about auto-immune disease or have an Irish Setter that has been diagnosed with an auto-immune disease the following maybe helpful to you.

CIMDA

Jo Tucker had a Bearded Collie who had an auto immune disease and as a result she became very interested in auto immune diseases and wanted to help others who found themselves in the same situation as herself.

She set up CIMDA (Canine Immune Mediated Disease Awareness) for all owners of any dog that has been diagnosed with an Auto-immune condition or for owners who believe their dog might have an autoimmune disease.  CIMDA offers help, advice and support to those owners and Jo is very knowledgeable.  She is always willing to help and her expertise and guidance has helped to ensure a speedy diagnosis and correct treatment.

http://cimda.co.uk/

Addison’s Disease –hypoadrenocorticism

Addison’s disease is so called because it was Thomas Addison who identified it in the 1800’s.  The adrenal glands produce the hormones cortisol and aldosterone which are needed for different functions in the body.  One of cortisol’s main functions is to help the body respond to stress while aldosterone helps to maintain the balance of salt and water in the body which is vital for the functioning of the kidneys. In Addison’s disease the adrenal glands are damaged and cannot produce enough hormones.

Symptoms:

• fatigue – not wanting to exercise
• muscle weakness
• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• vomiting and /or diarrhea
• increased thirst leading to having to urinate during the night
• bitches might miss seasons
• Because the symptoms are gradual and often vague they can often go unnoticed and make it difficult for a vet to diagnose it easily.  If it not diagnosed early then an Addisonian crisis may occur.This could begin with vomiting and diarrhea, followed by collapse and maybe even a coma and the dog needs immediate veterinary treatment.

Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia

There are a number of reasons why your dog may be anaemic and AIHA is only one reason, and an unusual one at that.  Anaemia occurs when there are low numbers of blood cells, which contain haemoglobin which carries oxygen around the body.  Haemolytic anaemia occurs when there is a destruction of the red blood cells and the body cannot keep up with reproducing new blood cells. This is when symptoms may be seen.   Usually the signs are slow and gradual and you may not be aware that your Setter has a problem until it collapses.

Signs to look for are:·      

• an increase in heart rate    
• increased breathing     
• weakness      
• lethargy
• Not wanting to go out on exercise or to play  
• Sleeping a lot or lying around a lot when they are normally active      
• loss of appetite       
• pale mucous membranes.  It is very easy to see if the gums are pale, they should be a good pink colour and not pale or white.       
• fever       
• jaundice, which can be seen by yellow gums or eyes

Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytes are the cells which are responsible for making the blood clot and Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP) is the destruction of these cells.

Symptoms:·      

• excessive bleeding after an accident or operation      
• excessive bleeding when a bitch is in season      
• bruising      
• petechiae-very smalls specks of blood on the skin      
• blood in the urine or stools

Before ITP can be diagnosed other more common diseases must be ruled out. These could include hemophilia or Warfarin poisoning. (Warfarin is used as a bait to control rats)The site linked below lists the different autoimmune disease, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

http://www.provet.co.uk/petfacts/healthtips/autoimmunedisease.htm

Researchers at the University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Research Center in Finland are collecting samples from Irish setters to study genetics of idiopathic, also called as primary or genetic, epilepsy in the breed. The project is carried out by Professor Hannes Lohi’s research group in collaboration with researchers in the University of Utrecht, Netherlands, and University of Missouri, USA. Lohi’s research group focuses in the identification of genes underlying various diseases and traits in dogs, with the main interest in neurological disorders. As epilepsy is the most common neurological disease in dogs, epilepsy in multiple dog breeds one of the most important projects in the group.

According to pedigree analyses, epilepsy is an inherited disorder in many dog breeds including Irish Setters. Despite genetic contribution, there are only a few genes identified for canine epilepsy to date. The common, adult onset idiopathic epilepsy in dogs is most likely not a disease caused by a mutation in a single gene. It is likely that there are genetic variants, which increase the risk of seizures, but do not necessarily cause them in all individuals carrying them. The preliminary results gained from a genetic analysis of altogether 75 Irish Setters collected in the USA by Prof. Gary Johnson’s research group (University of Missouri) support this idea of a more complex inheritance model than previously suspected based on pedigrees, as no epilepsy-associated genes were identified in this cohort. To identify the epilepsy-associated genetic variation in Irish Setters, more samples are being collected from epilepsy-affected and unaffected dogs. The unaffected dogs should be more than 7 years old without any symptoms of epilepsy.

Currently, samples are actively being collected in Finland, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Switzerland and Estonia. By August 2014, samples from 287 red Irish Setters were submitted to the research project, this included 54 samples from United Kingdom. Thirty-six of them were reported to have epilepsy (16 from UK). The number of sampled dogs with epilepsy has been increasing during the past couple of years, but still more samples are needed to continue with the research.

In addition to samples, thorough and up-to-date health information is collected from each dog as well as pedigree information. A 10-page epilepsy questionnaire is collected from each dog with epileptic seizures.

Even if an adequate number of samples is collected to continue with the genetic studies and the disease-predisposing gene is identified, it may not be possible to develop a genetic test. It depends on how strongly the risk-conferring genotype and epilepsy phenotype are correlated. However, the identification of a risk gene would help us in understanding many aspects of the disease in the breed, and about the molecular pathogenesis of epilepsy in general.

August 2014

If you would like to be part of this research further information and swab packs can be obtained from:
Meg Webb: SEISC Health Representative

If you already have packs and haven’t yet used them then please do so as soon as you can.

This initiative is supported by The Joint Irish Setter Breed Clubs Health Committee.

During the last four years around 40 DNA samples from UK Irish Setters which have been diagnosed with epilepsy have been sent to Professor Hannes Lohi’s Canine Genetics research group at the University of Helsinki. Samples from some 80 close family members of these dogs and some 40 older dogs which have not had seizures have also been sent.

The aim of the research is:” to discover new genes causing heritable characteristics and illnesses in dogs.”

The University has just released the following exciting news:

Uni­versity of Hel­sinki

Sig­ni­fic­ant epi­lepsy gene dis­cov­ery in dogs

Researh groups from the University of Helsinki, the LMU Munich and the University of Guelph have described in collaboration a novel myoclonic epilepsy in dogs and identified its genetic cause. The study reveals a novel candidate gene for human myoclonic epilepsies, one of the most common forms of epilepsy. As a result, a genetic test was developed for veterinary diagnostics and breeding programs.

A collaborative study describes a novel myoclonic epilepsy syndrome in dogs for the first time and discovers its genetic cause at DIRAS1 gene. The affected dogs developed myoclonic seizures at young age – on average 6 months old – and seizures occur typically at rest. In some of the dogs the seizures could be triggered by light.

A novel can­did­ate gene for hu­man myoclonic epi­lep­sies

– The canine myoclonic epilepsy resembles human juvenile myoclonic syndrome in many aspects and the study has therefore meaningful implications for epilepsy research across species, says Professor Hannes Lohi from the canine gene research group, University of Helsinki.

Myoclonic epilepsies are one of the most common forms of epilepsy in human and the canine findings will not only help in diagnostics but also provide a novel entry point to understand the pathophysiology of the disease. The identified DIRAS1gene may play a role in cholinergic transmission in the brain and provides a novel target for the development of epilepsy treatments.

– We found a novel epilepsy gene, DIRAS1, which has not been linked to any neurological diseases before. The gene is poorly characterized so far, but some studies suggest that it may play a role in cholinergic neurotransmission, which could be a highly relevant pathway for the myoclonic epilepsies, explains MSc Riika Sarviaho co-first author of the study.  

– The genetic backgrounds of myoclonic epilepsies are not well known yet, and our study provides a new candidate gene, which helps to further characterize the underlying pathophysiology in future studies. This would be important for the development of new treatment scenarios, summarizes Professor Lohi, senior author of the study.

The affected dogs continue to serve as preclinical models when new treatment options are sought in ongoing studies. 

A ge­netic test helps breed­ing and dia­gnostics
 

The results have implications for both veterinary diagnostics and breeding programs.

– We screened over 600 Rhodesian Ridgebacks and about 1000 epileptic dogs in other breeds and found that the DIRAS1defect was specific for juvenile myoclonic epilepsy in Rhodesian Ridgebacks so far, says MSc Sarviaho.

– With the help of the genetic test, veterinarians can diagnose this specific epilepsy in their canine patients while breeders will be able to identify carriers and revise the breeding plans to avoid future affected puppies. About 15% of the dogs in the breed carry the DIRAS1 mutation and dogs all over Europe and beyond are affected, says DVM Franziska Wieländerfrom LMU Munich.  

Dogs won’t need to be sed­ated any­more for epi­lepsy re­search 

To characterize the clinical features, researchers utilized a novel wireless video-EEG recording method. This allows a real-time monitoring of the electrical events prior, during and after the seizure episode in unsedated dogs.

– All the wires from electrodes are attached to a small portable device on the dog’s back that transmits the data straight to our computers. Thus, the dog is free to move around and we can record the EEG for long periods at one go, explains Professor Fiona James.

She has been previously developing the method at the University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada. 

– Video-EEG is a routine approach in the human epilepsy clinic but only piloted now for the dogs. The beauty of the method is that we can easily correlate the behavioral changes with the recorded electroencephalographs and compare them to human EEG results. Indeed, with this technique we were able to identify epilepsy at an early stage and prior to the development of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Moreover, we found strikingly similar EEG patterns in dogs that have been described in human myoclonic epilepsy”, describes Professor Andrea Fischer from LMU Munich.

– Video-EEG is a powerful new approach for veterinary epilepsy research compared to previous short, 20-minute interictal measurements under sedation and gives much more accurate results, says DVM Wieländer.

Careful clinical studies helped to establish proper study cohorts to identify the genetic cause.

The study was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA (PNAS) on 20 February 2017.

Links

The gene test will be part of the MyDogDNA-gene panel test (www.mydogdna.com).

con­tacts
 

Hannes Lohi, hannes.lohi@helsinki.fi, tel. +358294125085

Riika Sarviaho, riika.sarviaho@helsinki.fi

ori­ginal art­icle

Franziska Wielaender, Riika Sarviaho, Fiona James, Marjo Hytönen, Miguel A. Cortez, Gerhard Kluger, Lotta L. E. Koskinen, Meharji Arumilli, Marion Kornberg, Andrea Bathen-Noethen, Andrea Tipold, Kai Rentmeister, Sofie F. M. Bhatti, Velia Hülsmeyer, Irene C. Boettcher, Carina Tästensen, Thomas Flegel, Elisabeth Dietschi, Tosso Leeb, Kaspar Matiasek, Andrea Fischer, Hannes Lohi (2017) Generalized myoclonic epilepsy with photosensitivity in juvenile dogs caused by a defective DIRAS Family GTPase 1. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. DOI: www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.1614478114.

https://www.helsinki.fi/en/news/significant-epilepsy-gene-discovery-in-dogs

February 2017

It is accepted that, unfortunately, bloat has been known in Irish Setters for many years. In 1972 Rasbridge in his breed notes wrote “ While this condition is not is not as common in Irish Setters as in some other breeds and while my limited experience suggests to me that it is less prevalent now than in say the 30’s it certainly occurs. It would appear to have at least a partial genetic basis perhaps nothing more than an inherited tendency for the condition to occur under certain conditions.” and he names Ch Norna (dob 1926) as dying from bloat.

There have been several research projects into bloat over the years and the most recent is being conducted by Wilko Jansen from The Netherlands. He is not a scientist or vet but has been working as someone with a very keen interest in the Irish setter having owned them since 1968. He has been a member of the Ierse Setter Club (The Irish setter Club of Netherlands) since 1968 and was made an honorary life member in 2015.

In 1970 he was involved first hand with a dog which bloated and died whilst he was looking after the kennels of friends who were also breeders. He had a granddaughter of this bitch who also bloated and another bitch who blew up regularly after meals.

In 1974, as a member of the Breeding Advisory Committee of the Ierse Setter Club he had access to records held by the club and became aware of several cases of bloat that had been reported.  He has had a continuing interest in the health of the breed and was instrumental with Wim Van Gemert in introducing the breeding controls and collection of health data by the club. Although bloat was reported there were other potential health problems reported as well.  The club was the first breed club to send out questionnaires to members and owners of Irish Setters aged 2 years old and this health data was kept on cards.

In 2012, the Animal Health Trust announced a genetic investigation of bloat in the Irish Setter which was believed to be the first investigation to consider the probable genetic component. Unfortunately although the results raised a suspicion that there is an inherited component to the condition, confounding factors prevented the results reaching statistical significance and therefore proof so there was no clear conclusion.

He has recently been given the records and notes of Nel van der Sijde (Goldwyn) a prominent breeder of Irish setters in The Netherlands after the Second World War which mentioned several Irish setters which bloated.

He started his project on bloat in 2014 and at the beginning of 2016 he contacted the Ierse Setter Club and was given permission to use their health database “ZooEasy” for his research in the Dutch population of Irish Setters.

He has concentrated on pedigrees and family relationships between dogs that are known to have bloated. He has published a paper of his own personal opinion based upon his pedigree studies of reported bloat cases by owners and breeders.

He has many Irish setter pedigrees on his database and is continuing to collect information on Irish Setters which have bloated. If you have bred or owned a dog that has bloated then please pass on your information to him. 

If you would like a copy of his paper dated November 2016 please contact him directly.

His email address is:  wilko@malcompetsupplies.nl