Porto systemic shunts

[Lee at Delayre]

I put this on my web site because of Yorkshire sellers were passing off their large puppies as the "Silky Terrier Variety " of the Yorky.. Which is totally bogus They are two seperate breeds . This is information on two major health problems with Yorkshires. Cornell's shunt research also includes three other breeds mentioned quite often on this site.



TWO MAJOR HEALTH CONCERNS FOR YORKSHIRE TERRIERS THAT ARE NOT A CONCERN FOR SILKY TERRIERS

Liver shunts also know as Porto systemic shunts . The majority are considered congenital although they are not always. Most dogs with congenital shunts develop symptoms by 6 months of age , some may not show signs until later in life. Liver shunts are abnormal veins that allow blood from the intestine to bypass the liver. Ammonia and other toxins are not metabolized or removed from the circulation, resulting in signs of hepatic encephalopathy. Surgery is usually the only treatment. Cornell University is doing genetic mapping which was initiated by Tibetan Spaniel breeders. Cornel has included other breeds considered high risk including the Cairn Terrier, Papillion, Havanese , Norfolk Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer , Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. This is a link to the letter sent to the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America http://www.ytca.org/health_centermessage.pdf

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is a syndrome that occurs in many toy breed puppies usually between 6 to 12 weeks of age. The signs are listlessness, depression, staggering fait, muscular weakness and tremors especially in the face . If left without aid it may progress to a severe sugar drop causing seizures or becoming stuperous and go into a coma followed by death . In some cases some puppies exhibit only weakness or a wobbly gait Occasionally a puppy that seeded just fine is found in a coma. A true emergency you must apply Karo syrup to the gums to bring up the sugar level and then take the puppy to the Vet . If he has not gone into a coma sugar water an be given but not if he is unconscious. A puppy with hypoglycemia must have his blood sugar controlled . Prolonged or frequent attack can cause brain damage. It is also recommended Veterinary testing to rule out an underlying problem such as liver shunt, infections, or an enzyme or hormone deficiency.

[Sarah]

Thank you for the information, it's greatly appreciated. So what are some of the concerns people should know about the Silky Terriers, they should know if they are wanting to purchase one?