Health Issues That
Can Affect IG's
Hypothyroidism, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), seizure disorders,
luxating patellas, and Legg-Perthes disease. A few bloodlines have a predisposition for leg fractures due to lack
of bone density.
At this time the IGCA is working with
Dr. Acland of Cornell University to try to develop a blood test that would show up carriers of PRA. Meanwhile, responsible
breeders have their dogs eyes checked yearly and, if diagnosed as clear, the dogs are registered with a CERF number. This
is no guarantee, but it's the best we have at this time.
Responsible breeders also have their
dogs checked for Legg-Perthes, luxated patellas, heart irregularities and, hypo-thyroidism. Some veterinary orthopedic specialists feel
that bone density can be checked by x-rays, but there is some disagreement as to the effectiveness of this method. The IGCA's
health committee has been working on a study of patterns of heredity in excessive leg breaks but thus far there is no positive
method of identifying the problem.
In Rescue, we often don't know the
background or breeding of a particular dog. Therefore, adopters must always be aware that the possibilities of these health
issues may exist in a dog adopted through rescue.
Much of this information is provided
courtesy of the IGCA. Please visit their site to learn more about these health risks known to IG's.
