Page 74 - Chow LIfe - Summer 2022

Health Committee Report: Layla Loveless

Progress report for the: Genetics of Adverse Reactions to Anesthetic and Sedative Drugs
in Chow Chows
Dr Court’s study look at the link between a gene mutation and the ability of chows to me-
tabolize certain sedative drugs. These drugs included trazadone, which contains an ingredi-
ent that can only be metabolized by the affected gene. Other studies (before Dr Courts’ had
shown that mutations to this gene affected its metabolism. From Dr Court’s study, we know
that this gene mutation was widespread in chows, in comparison to most other dog breeds.
There is no proven link between the gene mutation and inability to metabolize trazadone
yet in dogs. But further studies would definitely be indicated because of Dr Court’s findings.

Degenerative Myelopathy (from the OFA website)
DM is a debilitating disease that causes gradual paralysis in many dog breeds. It is caused
by a degeneration of the spinal cord that onsets typically between 8 and 14 years of age. It
presents first with the loss of coordination of the hind legs. It will typically worsen over six
months to a year, resulting in paralysis of the hind legs. If signs progress for a longer period
of time, loss of urinary and fecal continence may occur and eventually, weakness will de-
velop in the front limbs. An important feature of Degenerative Myelopathy is that it is not
a painful disease. We recommend that breeders take into consideration the DM test results
as they plan their breeding programs; however, they should not over-emphasize the test
results. Instead, the test result should be one factor among many in a balanced breeding
program.

“I think dogs are the most

amazing creatures; they

give unconditional love. For

me, they are the role model

for being alive.”

– Gilda Radner

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