Question 1

Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy (GCL)

Accepted Answer

·        Who to test: 
 Any adult Cairn (dog or bitch) prior to breeding who has not been previously cleared by test or parentage.

·        Performed by: 
Veterinarian or Breeder/Owner, with purchased DNA swab.

·        Comments: 
This is a DNA-based test. It can be performed as an individual test or as part of a panel of genetic tests.

Question 2

Liver Portosystemic Vascular Anomaly (PSVA) and Microvascular Dysplasia (MVD)

Accepted Answer

·        Who to test:
Puppies 12-16 weeks, and any adult Cairn (dog or bitch) prior to breeding.

·        Performed by:
Veterinarian.
 
·        Comments:
A Bile Acid test is a blood test to check for hepatic insufficiency, and if abnormalities are detected, a Veterinary specialist may need to be consulted.

Question 3

Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO)

Accepted Answer

•	Who to test: 
Any adult Cairn (dog or bitch) prior to breeding who has not been cleared by test or parentage.

•	Performed by:
Veterinarian or Breeder/Owner, with purchased DNA swab.

•	Comments:
This is a DNA-based test. It can be performed as an individual test or as part of a panel of genetic tests.

Question 4

Portosystemic shunts Kidney Ultrasound for Missing Kidney (aplasia) or Deformed Kidney (dysplasia)

Accepted Answer

Who to test:
Puppies at 12-15 weeks and any adult Cairn (dog or bitch) prior to breeding who has not been cleared as normal.

Performed by:
Board Certified Veterinary Ultrasonographer/Radiologist.

Comments: 
If abnormalities are detected, a Veterinary specialist may need to be consulted.

Question 5

Ocular Melanosis (OM) CERF/CAER Eye Exam

Accepted Answer

·        Who to test:
All Cairns 2 years of age and older should be screened for any eye problems before breeding. Follow-up exams should be done periodically during a dog’s life as OM may present as a new health problem in older dogs.

·        Performed by:
Veterinary Ophthalmologist.

·        Comments:
Formal eye examination, performed with dilation, is the only test currently available for this condition

Question 6

Cardiac Exam

Accepted Answer

·        Who to test:
Puppies 12-16 weeks, and any adult Cairn (dog or bitch) prior to breeding.

·        Performed by:
Veterinarian.

·        Comments: 
 If abnormalities are detected, a Veterinary Cardiologist should be consulted.

Question 7

Patella Exam

Accepted Answer

·        Who to test: 
Puppies 12-16 weeks, and any adult Cairn (dog or bitch) prior to breeding.

·        Performed by: 
 Veterinarian.

·        Comments:
If abnormalities are detected, consult a Veterinary Orthopedist

Health Testing Recommendations for Cairn Terriers