Health
We check eyes yearly and certify hips and elbows under FCI regulations. We also test for the MDR1 defect (read more below), and we test all of our males for CEA. All dogs including the puppies we produce are tested registered with the ASCA DNA program. This means that there is no question about which dogs have produced the litter (the test tells absolutely whether or not the parents are who we say they are!).
We wish to maximize our chances of producing a superb stockdog and companion, while minimizing the chances of health and temperament problems. We try as hard as we can with the best of our knowledge to reduce the risks as much as possible. We think about these things with each and every breeding.
Please visit the very informative site of the ASHGI (Australian Shepherd Health and Genetics Institute) to learn more about the health problems that can crop up in the breed.
Gene found for Ivermectin sensitivity in Collie breeds/Test available to show affected dogs and carriers
At the University of Giessen, the Institute for Phamocology and Toxicology, a study was carried out to determine Ivermoctic sensitivities in Collie-type breeds. The results showed that out of 700 tested dogs, the incidence of dogs affected by the MDR1-defect gene were Collies (~85%), Shetland Sheepdog (~50%), Australian Shepherd (~30%) and Border Collies (~3%).
What does that mean?
In normal everyday situations, most dogs will never experience problems because of this issue. Don't panic! However, many Aussie owners who also have horses, sheep or cattle often use Ivermectin (a common livestock medication) to deworm their dogs. These folks should think twice about using Ivermectin, or should endeavor to have their dogs tested for the MDR1-defect gene. There are many alternate choices of deworming medication for those dogs whom are sensitive to Ivermectin. The test involves sending in a blood sample to the university, and costs 20.45 Euro.
More information can be found at the University of Giessen homepage: www.vetmed.uni-giessen.de/pharmtox/index.html
Adress:
GenoCanin, Unniversität Kassel, Institut für Biologie, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34109 Kassel
Except for Rosie, all of our dogs are free from the defect. Rosie has been found to be a carrier for the gene. This means that she herself will not be affected by Ivermectin but can pass on a sensitivity.
In the future, all of our dogs shall be tested. We shall also continue to practice responsible de-worming of all of our dogs and livestock, with the proper and safe medication.
Info on Hip Dysplasia
http://www.doggen-vom-gehrensee.com/hd.htm
http://vom-aralsee.de/hd1.html
ASCA's DNA Program--Word doc