Small Animal Services: Genetics
Mon.-Fri. | 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Inherited Ventricular Arrhythmia Screening
Rhodesian Ridgeback IVA Genetic Testing and NCSU Holter Package – $100.00 per dog
This package includes:
1. RR IVA genetic mutation testing
2. NC State Holter monitor rental and supplies
Recommended for Ridgebacks between 3 months and 2 years of age
A Holter monitor and supplies will be sent with DNA collection swabs for genetic testing. Owners will receive formal genetic testing results and a Holter report with genetic consultation and recommendations from Dr. Kate Meurs, PhD, DACVIM. Due to limited Holter supplies, this can be done for up to 4 dogs at a time and is available to owners, breeders, and veterinarians!
Rhodesian Ridgeback IVA Genetic Testing and Cardiologist Interpretation of External Holter Results Package – $75.00 per dog
This package includes:
1. RR IVA genetic mutation testing
2. Cardiologist interpretation of external Holter results
Recommended for Ridgebacks between 3 months and 2 years of age
A DNA collection swab kit will be sent to owners, which can be returned with Holter results from outside Holter analysis service. Owners will receive formal genetic testing results and a Holter report with genetic consultation and recommendations from Dr. Kate Meurs, PhD, DACVIM. This is available for owners, breeders, and veterinarians!
About Inherited Arrhythmia (RR IVA) in Ridgebacks
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.