`...a multi-purpose gundog  ...has an excellent nose, staying power, and works equally well on land and in water. A keen worker, easily taught, loyal, affectionate and trustworthy`

`...a multi-purpose gundog  ...has an excellent nose, staying power, and works equally well on land and in water. A keen worker, easily taught, loyal, affectionate and trustworthy`

Copyright The Large Munsterlander Club 2010

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EYE TESTING

OF THE BREED

The club wants to encourage as many owners as possible to health test their animals.  It would be wonderful if every Large Munsterlander bred in the UK was hip scored, elbow scored and eye tested.  Eye testing is quick and comparatively simple (and they are not asked to read from an eye chart!)

There is a list available, from the BVA of appointed eye panellists who can issue certificates under the scheme and owners can make an appointment with one of the panellists directly or through their own veterinary surgeon. Listed above are events where individuals or breed clubs have arranged for a BVA panellist to attend, allowing many dogs to be examined on one occasion, saving time and money.

Owners of Kennel Club registered dogs must have the relevant documents with them at the time of testing to qualify for an eye test under the scheme.  The panellist will examine the dog, issue an eye certificate and inform the owner of the result at the time of examination.

An examination under the Scheme will cost approximately £40 for a private appointment.

The Large Munsterlander is affected by HC (Hereditary Cataract).  The numbers affected are still quite low but maybe on the increase.  Even if an animal is affected it is quite possible the cataract will never impair its vision.  However the club believes that encouraging health testing and participating in genetic research can only benefit the breed, increasing the information available to breeders and allowing them to make informed choices and breed the healthiest animals possible.

The Animal Health Trust are currently researching the genetics of Hereditary Cataracts in several breeds including Large Munsterlanders, http://www.aht.org.uk/pdf/canine_genetics.pdf.  Any eye tested Large Munsterlander (but especially those affected or closely related to an affected) can supply DNA to the AHT by a simple cheek swab for more details or a kit contact Christine Ogle