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Study Overview

Postmortem Examinations

It is critical that postmortem examinations be performed
on puppies who die suddenly.

Should your puppy, or a puppy you have bred, die before the age of 1 year, as devastating as it is, please help us with this time sensitive task.  It is imperative that we continue gathering tissue samples and data on affected puppies. 

Because this study involves the partnership of two research studies at separate Universities, a great deal of coordination is required.  For example, while the autopsy can be performed at any vet using the guidelines we provide, DNA samples must be collected, stored according to specific guidelines and sent to the University of Pennsylvania.  The Heart Study Coordinator is happy to assist by providing detailed instructions and by coordinating the movement of pertinent information in order to ensure that all parties are equally informed.  Please contact Amanda Kelly, at fwaggle2@eastlink.ca or 902-864-4157 for assistance.

Alternatively, you may contact Dr. Shannon Martinson at the University of Prince Edward Island.  Dr. Martinson will be coordinating much of UPEI's MT Heart Study and is aware of possible sensitivities around the sharing of information.  She will facilitate private/anonymous study entries.

Please click here for more information on recommended low-cost necropsy options and study requirements.

Pedigree Study

The second step in the research process is completion of a pedigree study on confirmed cases.  In order to do this, we require copies of autopsy reports and an accompanying pedigree for any puppy that has been diagnosed (past or present).  If you have already submitted such information, please let us know as soon as possible.  This information is extremely imprtant as it may provide insight into how the gene causing the problem is passed on.

Again, if you have had a puppy over 8 weeks and under one (1) year of age die from cardiomyopathy or from any unidentified cause, we ask that you notify the Health Committee. If you do not wish to share the information with the club, we ask that at the very least you share it with the researchers by contacting Dr. Shannon Martinson.  If you know of puppies that have died, please let a Health Committee member know and we can pursue that information. Confidentiality will absolutely be honoured upon request.  

DNA Analysis

The Heart Study Team at the University of Pennsylvania is currently collecting blood samples from the relatives of affected dogs for whom we currently have DNA on file.  Please note:  Not all study cases also have DNA on file.  Please contact the study coordinator to confirm whether blood samples are required BEFORE submitting any tissues.