Reading the forum of late, it appears that quite a few members have dogs that suffer from seizures of one form or another. We all know that seizures can come about for a number of reasons and take on many forms. However, in some breeds, 'Idiopathic epilepsy' is a known problem. The Animal Health Trust is conducting research into Idiopathic Epilepsy at this time, but am curious to know if your own breed and/or breed clubs are actively trying to address the problem by fundraising towards such research?

The KC breed health coordinator department will probably be able to tell you.

Yes they probably could but I was interested to hear from our members :)

The BSD clubs do in various ways such as stakes classes where entry fees goes to epilepsy research.

The schipperke Club don't fundraise but members have been submitting DNA samples to our breed co-ordinator for the Helsinki University Epilespy research group since 2008.  Our club championship show that year saw their research assistant for schips with a vet technician come over and collect samples from dogs attending with breeders submitting on a reqular basis.

I understand they have a similar person for each breed recognised with response being varying between the breeds. Can't say I've heard anything about AHT involvement via the club.

We are encouraged to report all diseases/conditions to the Dachshund Breed Council and fill in details when a dog dies, Ian Seath reminds members of the UK dachshund forum to keep records up to date.

There was a request for any epileptic dachsies to take part in research but they have reached the desired numbers now.

Also dogs without back problems within a certain age range took part in research too.

I think my breed is very well covered when it comes to health issues

> The Animal Health Trust is conducting research into Idiopathic Epilepsy at this time

After being mentioned by Dakkobear recently, I sent off to the Animal Health Trust and received the DNA kit to test Tara. She is unaffected by epilepsy, but they want to test unaffected dogs over the age of 7 and I know that there is epilepsy in Australian Shepherds. They may also use her DNA for their research into hereditary cataracts. We are really pleased to be abe to help as Tara is, very fortunately, extremely healthy for a 10 year old :) They also need DNA from dogs affected by Idiopathic Epilepsy.

Animal Health Trust

The Pastoral Breed Health foundation and Border Collie Clubs have been actively involved in collecting samples for the research.