I do feel MVD is polygenetic with environmental and stressors influences...the key guestion is "why does the collagen prematurely age in CKCSs"??? There are other autoimmune diseases that are problematic in dogs...maybe this is one of the influencing factors???
I do truly believe in "testing" and I like working with one cardiologist so he or she can get to know my dogs and the same person will be performing the evaluation at the annual intervals. This lends to good calibration as other have stated. I also believe in trying to "load the deck" with oldies...and following ones bloodlines and combinations. But frankly...this is a very complex problem without a simple solution. This is truly not for the faint at heart...since the solution will take time and true dedication to this breed to try to undercover the many pieces of the puzzle. Take care, Kathy Yonkers ========================================================= "Magic Commands": to stop receiving mail for awhile, click here and send the email: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?body=SET%20CKCS-L%20NOMAIL to start it up gain click here: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?body=SET%20CKCS-L%20MAIL E-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] for assistance. Search the Archives... http://apple.ease.lsoft.com/archives/ckcs-l.html All e-mail sent through CKCS-L is Copyright 2002 by its original author.
