HEALTH
MATTERS
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The
Sealyham Terrier is a healthy breed,
with relatively few genetic anomalies compared to other breeds. A
survey conducted by the ASTC in 2001 showed lens luxation and allergies
to be the most prevalent disorders. Lens luxation is a disease common
in many terriers. The lens of the eye becomes detached from the outer
wall of the eye. It nearly always affects both eyes, although usually
not at the same time. Recurring bladder infections and allergy-related
ear infections were also concerns. Disk problems occur occasionally.
Despite some dog books citing deafness in the breed, it does not seem
to be widespread. All of these problems can be managed with proper
veterinary care and are not life-threatening. It is always important to
choose a reputable breeder who monitors the health of their puppies
throughout their lives and has tried to eliminate genetic diseases
through selective breeding.
The ASTC is a "Founder" Donor to the Canine Health Foundation, donating
$10,000, and is participating in allergy and lens luxation research
projects to try to find genetic markers and possibly genetic tests to
use as one of many factors affecting breeding decisions.
The ASTC, in collaboration with the Institute
for Genetic Disease Control has founded the S.I.G.H.T.
Registry (Sealyham Eye Genetic Health Tracking), an open registry
in which Sealyham Terrier owners can register current eye exams,
pedigrees and other pertinent information about their dogs. The
information is available to registered users of the database and can be
used to make informed breeding decisions.
GDC and the SIGHT Registry are presently conducting a survey among
Sealyham owners world-wide to determine the prevalence of lens luxation
and other eye diseases.
The ASTC is dedicated to keeping our Sealyham a healthy dog and to
address the few diseases which do affect our lovely breed.
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SIGHT
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The American Sealyham Terrier Club created SIGHT in 2003 as a registry
for the eye health of all Sealyhams. As owners and breeders register
their dogs, SIGHT will become an increasingly crucial and comprehensive
source of information
(Click Here for More Info!)
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