Back problems in Dachshunds researched
The Southern Dachshund Association are offering free thermal imaging as part of a research project into Dachshund Intervertebral Disease (IVDD).
Owners of Smooth or Miniature Smooth-haired Dachshunds are offered the chance to take part in this research project, by having their dogs screened. The first screening will take place at the Southern Dachshund Association's Championship Show in Slough at the end of the month.
Thermographer and veterinary nurse Anna Schumann will be attending to take thermal images of participating Dachshunds. The project, initiated by the Dachshund Breed Council's Health sub-committee, aims to investigate if thermal imaging can be used as a diagnostic predictor for future back problems in the breed. Images will be collected and analysed over several years to map and identify normal and abnormal thermal patterns in the back.
Similar to radiographs and other diagnostic imaging tools, thermal imaging allows identification of expected and unexpected patterns. For example unusual areas of warmth can signify issues such as inflammation, whilst cooler areas can indicate problems such as loss of blood flow or nerve compression.
The Championship Show marks the launch of the project, and screenings will be entirely free and non-invasive. Anna Schumann says that images taken for the study will be revisited if one of the participating dogs go on to experience back problems. Researchers will look for indications on the thermal patterns that could act as an early warning guide for future generations.
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
