Serendipity Farmlet Albany Cavaliers

Health Tests

Serendipity Farmlet Albany Cavaliers conducts 6 additional tests available for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

ADAMTS3

Genetic Test

A mutation in the ADAMTS3 gene has been associated with airway disease in dogs. The mutation causes airway swelling and fluid build up which can make affected dogs very prone to breathing problems. There is now a DNA test available in some breeds to identify whether a breeding dog has a mutation in their ADAMTS3 gene. Breeders can use this test to inform their breeding program and help minimise the risk of breathing problems in their puppies.

Congenital Macrothrombocytopenia (CM)

Genetic Test

Congenital Macrothrombocytopenia (CM) is a mild disease which normally does not have any impact on an affected dog’s health or lifespan but can cause concern if noticed on routine bloodwork without knowing the cause. It is a blood disease resulting in low numbers of very large platelets. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition.

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome

Genetic Test

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome is a genetic cause of eye and skin problems in Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies. The disease also caused an unsually tight curly coat texture. There is a DNA test available to identify if breeding Cavaliers are carrying the gene for Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

Genetic Test

This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease.

Episodic Falling Syndrome

Genetic Test

This is a genetic neurological condition affecting Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. It causes sudden stiffening of the legs, often causing the dog to fall over and be unable to move. There is a DNA test available to indicate if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. The test is also recommended in Cavoodles.

Hip Dysplasia

Physical Test

These breeders have had x-rays taken on their breeding dogs to assess their ‘hip score’. Dogs with low hip scores have better hips and are less likely to develop problems in the future. Most large and medium sized dog breeds benefit from hip scoring to ensure they are unlikely to pass hereditary hip problems on to their puppies.