Small Animal Services: Genetics
Mon.-Fri. | 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Inherited Arrhythmia (RR IVA)
Rhodesian Ridgeback Inherited Arrhythmia (RR IVA) is an inherited disease that results in an abnormality of the cardiac electrical system leading to the development of abnormal heart beats (ventricular premature beats (VPCs). In some cases these abnormal heart beats can result in sudden death. It appears that the most severe disease may be present between 6 and 30 months of age and many dogs appear to outgrow the problem.
A genetic test can be performed to determine if your dog has the DNA mutation that will put him/her at risk for the disease.
At this time we recommend that dogs that have the DNA mutation have a Holter monitored performed occasionally between 6 and 30 months of age to determine if they are having abnormal heart beats that should be more closely monitored or may indicate a need for treatment.
Additionally, breeding decisions about dogs that have the mutation should be made carefully and with planning to help gradually reduce the prevalence of the mutation in the breed.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Inherited Arrhythmia (IVA) Testing Price: $48.00 per dog
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Holter Monitor Services
Holter monitoring is a noninvasive method of assessing the heart’s rhythm and rate. It is a 24-hour electrocardiogram that is recorded while the animal is “wearing” a recorder. This permits an analysis of the rhythm and rate of the heart throughout the day and night of the dog with activities documented in a diary by the owner.
