Section 2 of 2 - Prev - Next

   a shortened lifespan, and the dog will have chronic anemia (low red
   blood cell counts) and a very shortened lifespan (the oldest known
   afflicted basenji lived to be three years old.) Testing is very
   simple, requiring only a cheek swab which can then be checked for
   clear (no defective PK genes) carrier (one defective PK gene) or
   afflicted (two defective genes). Genesearch offers this test at an
   very reasonable price in comparison to other testing facilities.
   
  Hypothyroidism
  
   Hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels in the blood stream) is perceived
   to be a major issue basenjis. Low thyroid levels commonly lead to
   weight gain, poor skin and coat condition, and lethargy. Uncommon
   symptoms include low fertility in females, neuromuscular problems,
   changes in vision, cretinsim (dwarf-like qualities in developing
   puppies) and myxedema (dry swelling of the skin, slowed speech and
   mental awareness, deepened voice, intolerance to cold, fatigue and
   weakness, and nonspecific degeneration of the heart). It is unclear as
   to the association of the following conditions: male infertility,
   clotting disorders, cardiovascular changes, behavioral changes,
   gastrointestinal problems.
   
   Many people and Veterinarians place basenjis on Thyroid based solely
   on the simple thyroid tests availble to them (total T4); however, the
   most accurate tests for diagnosis are: Free T4 by dialysis (FT4D)
   which measures only the T4 in the blood stream which can actually act
   upon the metabolism and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) assay which
   will be inversly proportional to the FT4D results. TgAA (Thyroglobulin
   Autoantibody) confirms if inherited thyroid disease is the cause of
   low FT4D/High TSH.
   
   These tests must be performed under controlled laboratory conditions,
   and a list of qualified labs supplied from the Orthepedic Foundation
   of America. Research into Hypothyroidism performed by by clinical
   laboratories and submitted to peer-reviewed publications is ongoing.
   The diagnosis of hypothyroidism by non-OFA approved labs, employing
   techniques and assumptions that have not been subjected to the rigors
   of veterinary peer-review, should be looked upon dubiously.
   
  Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)
  
   PPM is the artifact of a fine sheet of veins that feed the eye of a
   developing puppy. Shortly before the eyes open, a protein is secreted
   which dissolves this membrane. If it doesn't completely dissolve,
   small artifacts will be left behind. Most PPM strands look like fine
   cobwebs but the worst cases can give the eyes an unearthly blue hue.
   PPM is prevalent in basenjis, and a good breeder will try to avoid
   breeding heavy PPM dogs to other heavy PPM dogs. A basenji with a CERF
   rating has been found clear (by the examining optometrist) of
   hereditary eye defects such as PPM on the date of the exam.
   
  Coloboma
  
   Coloboma is the common name given to describe a gap or hole in the eye
   structure. This gap can occur in the eyelid, iris, lens, choroid (the
   fine web of blood vessels which feed the retina) or optic disc (the
   area at the rear of the eyeball from which the optic fibers exit to
   carry information to the brain). The gap is usually at the bottom of
   the eye. Although no specific pattern has been identified there
   appears to be a strong hereditary factor to the disorder. The effects
   of the condition can be mild or severe and this will depend upon the
   extent and location of the gap, or incomplete closure. A lens
   coloboma, if large, may also include flaws in the iris and choroid and
   slightly increase risk of retinal tearing. In severe cases, the eye
   may be reduced in size, this condition is called Microphthalmous.
   Coloboma of the iris may sometimes give the appearance of a keyhole in
   the pupil. Most veterinary optometrists can detect Coloboma with the
   use of a simple split beam apperatus. Along with PPM, Coloboma is why
   most responsible breeders have the eyes checked of all puppies before
   placing them in new homes. Spaying/neutering of affected puppies is
   mandatory.
   
  Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  
   PRA used to be a minor problem in basenjis limited to easy to trace
   family lines. Unfortunately, over the past few years PRA has become a
   major concern, with many (later found) afflicted basenjis and carriers
   being bred. PRA is the slow but continuous damage of the retina. As
   scar tissue replaces the retina, vision is lost until such time when
   the dog is completely blind. PRA is a simple recessive, and a test is
   currently under development. As with Fanconi Syndrome,a breeder that
   claims no ties, or doesn't mention PRA is not the breeder for you. PRA
   is currently a major research project at Cornell University, the lead
   researcher is Dr. Gustavo Aguirre.
   
  Umbilical Hernias
  
   The belly button issue: a large percentage of Basenjis have umbilical
   hernias, i.e. an "outty" belly button. This is not cause for alarm,
   and should only be worried about if it becomes violently red, which is
   cause for veterinary surgery. If you are spaying your Basenji bitch,
   go ahead and have the hernia repaired. The is no need to risk
   additional surgery. Most vets charge little to nothing for the removal
   of an umbilical hernia during a spay operation.
   
  Hip Displaysia
  
   Hip Displaysia is when the ball and socket of the hip joint is
   malformed. Depending on the severity of the malformation; a dog may be
   unable to walk, or may limp often. In severe cases, displastic animals
   require full joint replacement, while other can be maintained via
   controlled diets and monitored exercise. While Hip Displaysia is not
   as profuse in basenjis as it is in say German Shepherds; there is
   still an alarmingly higher incidence rate in recent years. All
   breeding stock should be over two years of age, and carry a hip rating
   from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA). Some people will tell
   you that hip displaysia is purely an environmental outcome; but they
   are deluding themselves. OFA ratings suitable for breeding are
   Excellent, Good, and Fair. Unacceptable are Borderline, Moderate 1-4.
   The Canine Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) is currently funding
   research in the mode of inheritance of Hip Displaysia in Basenjis. The
   lead researcher is Dr. Gary Johnston at the University of Missouri.
   
  Summary
  
   You should mention all of these health problems before you buy a
   puppy! Most breeders will supply you with ten times more information
   than we have offered up; many will give you photocopies of eye
   reports, OFA certificates, printout of blood test- enough information
   to keep your head reeling for days. This is a breeder that cares about
   their dogs. Some breeders will try to "snow" you into thinking that
   these tests aren't needed; or the problem isn't in their dogs. Most of
   the time, these people have never tested; and cannot know for sure.
   See the certificates; it's in your best interest. There is no reason
   for anybody to be breeding dogs that have not been tested.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Is this FAQ applicable for the whole world?

   This FAQ was originated by four people in the United States; and has
   been updated by people in the United States. Since there is easy
   travel between the United States and Canada we can safely say that
   this FAQ is applicable to North America. Many individuals in other
   countries have voiced the opinion that all the medical problems found
   in American Basenjis aren't found in their country of origin. To this,
   I have only one thing to say. Every Basenji not running wild in Africa
   can trace its lineage back to a group of only 13-20 dogs; how can dogs
   from the exact same foundation stock not be affected by the same
   problems? Ignorance is not bliss.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
What organizations recognize Basenjis?

   Every breed registry in the civilized world recognizes the Basenji as
   a definitive breed. Depending on the country; they may be considered
   Hounds, Spitz-type dogs, or Primitive breeds. Most lure coursing
   Associations recognize the basenji to run in coursing competition.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Resources

  National Clubs
  
     The Basenji Club of America, Inc.
     http://www.basenji.org
     
  Regional Clubs
  
     Available from the Basenji Club of America Website..
     http://www.basenji.org/clubs.htm
     
  Rescue Contacts (North America)
  
          The Basenji Club of America Rescue Committee
          Linda Ehlers, chair ehlersjl@iland.net
          Charlie Denslow charlied@siscom.net
          Janine Peters nenepeters@aol.com
          
          Basenji Education and Rescue (BEAR)
          http://www.siscom.net/~charlied
          Basenji Rescue and Transport, Inc.
          http://www.basenjirescue.org
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   Basenji FAQ
   Contact: Troy J. Shadbolt, voyuz@basenji.com
   Hosted by voyuz.net

Section 2 of 2 - Prev - Next

© allanswers.org | Terms of use