Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not the only ones who suffer from Syringomyelia and Chiari Malformation. Humans also suffer from this painful condition but it is not nearly as common as it is with a Cavalier. Bobby Jones, a famous golfer, was diagnosed with Syringomyelia which eventually restricted him to a wheelchair. Can Cavalier King Charles Spaniels provide the clues of this condition?
Yes, in fact recently with the Human Genome Project gave valuable information on understanding genetics. I am not a scientist but this YouTube Video explains that with we are not that much different. Dr. Clare Rusbridge along with others started to build a DNA database and has already had some major discoveries. They believe to have already found the genetic region for SM. This is all thanks to Rupert's Fund along with other organizations that have contributed. Here is a document that describes more in scientific terms.
The American Syringomyelia and Chiari Alliance Project
They wrote about how dogs might just be the answer to some of their pain. The genetic understanding and research would be extremely valuable information. Thanks to the worldwide campaign they were hoping to be able to pinpoint this gene. How great would that be for human kind! It looks like Dr. Rusbridge is on the right track.
They could get a better understanding of how things develop. How it passes on through certain generations. Since there are more Cavaliers and other dogs Friends of Lola with Syringomyelia and that the generations can be traced gives scientist knowledge and humans hope.
What a pet owner of an SM dog can learn from a human
I always wonder what Ella goes through because she can not tell me. Sometimes it is hard to hear people talking about the terrible pain but it makes me understand more. We need to learn from each other.
Don't Give up on a Breed
Purebreds do have hereditary conditions. It is easier to pinpoint these health issues because they have several generations and history. Understanding and being able to trace this valuable DNA, may do wonders for mankind.
Please see futher information
Dog's Provide Chiari Clues http://www.conquerchiari.org/subs%20only/volume%203/issue%203(11)/spaniels%203(11).asp
And As Always Please Visit Rupert's Fund-
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