Overview
A number of test are available for Parson Russell Terriers. Two or more of these tests purchased as part of this bundle will be discounted.
- Hyperuricosuria associated with the SLC2A9 gene
- Late Onset Ataxia
- Primary Lens Luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy associated with the PRCD gene
- Spinocerebellar Ataxia (Russell Terrier Type)
Hyperuricosuria
The SLC2A9 gene codes for a protein that allows the kidneys to transport uric acid from the urine. Dogs with mutations in both copies of the SLC2A9 gene are predisposed to have elevated levels of uric acid in the urine, hence the name hyperuricosuria. Dogs with hyperuricosuria most commonly present with symptoms of recurrent urinary tract inflammation, which include frequent urination, blood in the urine, and straining to urinate. They may also have loss of appetite, lethargy, weakness, vomiting and pain. Urinary stones in the bladder can cause urinary tract infections or more seriously, blockage of the Urethra.
Late Onset Ataxia
Late onset ataxia, otherwise known as spinocerebellar ataxia in the Parson Russell Terrier affects young dogs, usually around the age of 6-12 months. Initially the dogs’ owners may notice their dog is not very well coordinated, with hind limb swaying when walking, and difficulty in climbing stairs and jumping. As the disease progresses, a characteristic ‘prancing’ or ‘dancing’ type of gait develops, especially affecting the hind limbs. Severely affected animals frequently fall and have difficulty returning to a standing position. In most affected dogs the disease progresses with dogs finding it increasingly difficult to walk.
Primary Lens Luxation
Primary lens luxation (PLL) is a painful and potentially blinding inherited eye disease that typically affects dogs between 3 and 8 years of age. PLL is caused by a single nucleotide substitution in the ADAMTS17 gene and is found in many breeds, including the Parson Russell Terrier.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRCD type)
*Optigen Officially Licensed*
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is the most common form of inherited disease affecting the retina in dogs. Genetically different forms of PRA, caused by mutations in different genes, affect many breeds of dog with each form usually affecting one or a small number of breeds. PRA is characterised by progressive degeneration of the retina at the back of the eye and leads to vision loss and blindness.
Progressive Rod Cone Degeneration (PRCD) is a form of PRA and was one of the first PRAs for which a genetic variant was identified. PRCD is different than most forms of PRA in that the variant has been found in a large number and diverse range of breeds.
Spinocerebellar Ataxia (Russell Terrier Type)
Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) is an early onset, inherited neurologic disease affecting dogs. Affected dogs typically present with incoordination and loss of balance between 2 to 6 months of age. The disease is progressive with affected dogs developing a “prancing” gait and often falling. With this form of ataxia dogs may also have episodes of muscle twitching and rigidity that can appear like seizures but dogs are aware of their surroundings during these attacks. The episodes of muscle twitching get worse with age and dogs are at risk of overheating. Affected dogs can also experience true epileptic seizures.
