MOVING FORWARD
The problem of Syringomyelia is not going away. SM is here and dogs in our breeds are suffering. Dogs from twenty breeds (and cross breeds) have a diagnosis of SM. With awareness and knowledge of SM increasing so the list of breeds diagnosed may grow. I believe we need to start thinking in terms of the future of our beloved breeds.
It is such a difficult scenario. There are Griffons that are clear of CMSM and its down to the generosity of owners and breeders that have taken their dogs to be scanned and allowed DNA samples to be sent to Canada for the genome research. In the UK we know statistics for our breed because there are breeders and owners who are being proactive in health matters and scanning dogs to work out the best breeding options to move forward. Until people are willing and able to scan their dogs to follow breeding guidelines or to help the genome search then the reality of a DNA test, becoming available to test for SM is delayed .Cavalier owners and breeders are also working hard to help find a solution. Rupert’s Fund a scheme initiated by pet owners from the Cavalier Talk Forum are raising funds to MRI scan older cavaliers to help in the valuable DNA research. Already a number of older dogs have been scaned with exciting and interesting results for the genome research.
I believe we can find common ground and work together, what ever our position or relationship, be it pet owner, breeder, breed club or association, show dog or family pet, veterinary professionals or researchers. We all have the breeds in our hearts.
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Keeping quiet about the condition in our breeds is denying the suffering and pain and anguish of dogs and their owners and families. Moving forward together may be the most challenging thing we do this year. I believe we can start by reaching out and sharing our stories and experiences. Acknowledging that dog owners of what ever breed are shocked by this condition, shocked and upset by the SM grade’s of their breeding dogs and that owners and friends are heart broken and distressed watching their dogs suffer. We need to recognise that responsible breeders, those that health test and follow health related breeding protocols are doing their best to breed healthy pups, whilst remembering that a dogs health can not be guaranteed. We have a wealth of experience and knowledge out there amongst the dog lovers who have their dogs at the heart of what they do. Lets find a way of uniting together to care, comfort, share and connect in the battle with syringomyelia and chiari-like malformation.