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Concerns with breeding dog dx with West Highland White Terrier Shaki

Sent to Dog Experts October 2 2006 at 9:56 AM
   

My 4 year old Westie had an episode about 3-4 months ago that our Vet determined after process of elimination was West Highland White Terrier Shaking Syndrome.(s/s-shaking, general fatigue and laying around all the time--not at all normal for her)After a course of Prednisone she was fine and has had no other s/s since that time. I have bred her in the past without any problems at all and wanted to ask your opinion on breeding her now. As far as I can tell this is not a genetic issue, so my concern is the safety of my dog and what are the chances that pregnancy could possibly exacerbate another episode? any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

 

Optional Information:
Age: 4; Female; Breed: West Highland Terrier

Already Tried:
My Vet readily admits to not having much if any experience and/or extensive knowledge of this condition, especially in regard to issues or concerns with breeding./p>

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $8
Answer
October 2 2006 at 10:13 AM (16 minutes and 50 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
You're correct in believing that there doesn't seem to be a genetic component to Shaker Syndrome. In fact, the exact cause of the disease is poorly understood other than that it appears to be some sort of inflammatory issue within the central nervous system of the affected dog.
However, I think there may be substantial risk in using your dog for breeding. There does appear to be an increased risk of recurrence of Shaker Syndrome during times of stress. As you know, pregnancy can be a huge stressor on any dog. In addition, steroids can NOT be used on a pregnant dog because of the high risk of inducing abortion. Therefore, if she were to have a recurrence of the problem while pregnant you would have no options for treatment.
I hope this information was helpful.
RGK -- Veterinarian -- 100% Positive Feedback on 240 Dog Accepts
6 years experience as small animal vet, 17 years experience in the animal care field
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