Overview
A number of tests are available for the Swedish Vallhund. Two or more of these tests purchased as part of this bundle will be discounted.
- Hyperuricosuria associated with the SLC2A9 gene
- Retinopathy associated with the MERTK gene
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.
Retinopathy
Retinopathy in the Swedish Vallhund is a unique type of retinal degeneration in dogs, and differs from other progressive retinal atrophies described in dogs. The age of onset and rate of progression vary considerably. In the early stages of disease vision remains normal, but it progresses first to signs of night-blindness and eventually impaired day vision as well.
