Species: Dog
Condition: Hereditary Polioencephalomyelopathy of the Australian Cattle Dog
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
It is a very rare autosomal recessive disorder affecting Australian Cattle Dogs. Dogs that are diagnosed with the disease suffer from psychomotor problems starting at a young age, and complete paralysis often occurs within the first year. Prominent symptoms include weakness, seizures, thoracic limb stiffness, arthritis, elbow dysplasia, spondylosis, and eventually progressing to spastic tetraparesis. Affected female dogs may suffer from reproductive problems including false pregnancy, pyometra, and infertility. Loss of vision may also be a common sequel.
Breeds exposed to Hereditary Polioencephalomyelopathy of the Australian Cattle Dog – Research Reference
Bernese Mountain Dog – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Bernese Mountain Dog Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Hereditary Polioencephalomyelopathy of the Australian Cattle Dog or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
