We are now offering the test for Cone Degeneration (CD) in the Alaskan Malamute. Cone Degeneration causes day blindness due to the degeneration of the cone-shaped light receptors in the eye which respond to bright daylight. An affected dog will begin to show signs of problems with vision at 8-12 weeks of age. These pups become day-blind and exposure to bright light is irritating or even painful. An affected dog’s night vision is unaffected by CD.
Cone Degeneration is caused by a recessive genetic mutation. This means that dogs which carry the mutation (“CARRIERS”) are normal but will pass the mutation on to an average of 50% of their offspring. Puppies which inherit two copies of the mutation will develop Cone Degeneration (“AFFECTED”).
The test, which is performed by a simple mouth swab which we post out to you, can be ordered and paid for online at https://www.animaldnadiagnostics.co.uk/. The cost is £48 incl. VAT. We also offer a bundle test for CD and polyneuropathy (AMPN) for £78 incl VAT.