Cerebellar Ataxia is a rare and inheritable neurological disease – that has recently been reported in 2 young UK vizslas that were investigated at the Royal Veterinary College in London. Clinical signs of the disease are progressive ataxia (gait incoordination) – and this becomes apparent between 2-3 months of age. There is no treatment or cure and affected dogs are euthanased on welfare grounds.

In February 2016 The Animal Health Trust launched a new DNA test for cerebellar ataxia in our breed. The genetic mutation was found using a new investigation method which utilises whole genome sequencing technology and computer analysis tools to study all 2.4 billion letters of DNA from just one affected Vizsla.The test is available here and costs £48

From Cathryn Mellersh  – head of Genetics at the AHT

 “As this condition in the Hungarian Vizsla is quite rare we’re not expecting to find several affected dogs through DNA testing, but it is crucial to identify any possible carriers in order to prevent any more puppies being born with this horrible neurological disease, and to stop it becoming a bigger problem in future lines.

“The carrier rate for this condition is estimated at approximately 1 in every 100 smooth-haired Hungarian Vizsla. We’ve had a good level of interest in this research so far from Vizsla breeders and we’re confident that the Vizsla breeding community is keen to get this mutation under control, and in time, eradicate it safely from their breed altogether.”

Full detail – AHT article

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