Many of the characteristic breed traits and common and rare genetic diseases and predispositions seen in veterinary practice are now recognized to have a heritable basis and have taken on an increasingly important role in veterinary medicine. Today, approximately 900 and 200 hereditary diseases and genetic predispositions are recognized in dogs and cats, respectively. Many are well characterized from clinical signs to the gene defect. Precise diagnostic tools have been developed to detect affecteds and carriers; specific treatments can be offered for a few of them, and genetic counseling with breeder clients can improve the health of small animals in future generations. However, it is difficult for a clinician to keep up with the rapidly accumulating information on clinical genetics and the large spectrum of disorders and genetic predispositions. Thus, a readily accessible comprehensive resource that is up-to-date and practice oriented is needed for the veterinary clinician.
Tentative Listing of Scientific Advisors & Representatives:J. Angles, Australia F. Smith, OFA-USA M. Inaba, Japan R. Clipsham, USA C.K. Harper, South Africa V. Martinez, Chile F. Nicholas, Australia S. Little, Winn Feline USA
Many of the characteristic breed traits and common and rare genetic diseases and predispositions seen in veterinary practice are now recognized to have a heritable basis and have taken on an increasingly important role in veterinary medicine. Today, approximately 900 and 200 hereditary diseases and genetic predispositions are recognized in dogs and cats, respectively. Many are well characterized from clinical signs to the gene defect. Precise diagnostic tools have been developed to detect affecteds and carriers; specific treatments can be offered for a few of them, and genetic counseling with breeder clients can improve the health of small animals in future generations.