Working together toward a better breed.
The Jack Russell Terrier Research Foundation
Primary Lens Luxation
As the research foundation continues to collect samples and collect genetic data, we realize that it is time to focus more on collecting affected individuals and their families. We understand that many breeders do not have the space and time to gather all their terriers and transport them across states to the next trial with a DNA clinic. The foundation is willing to aid all owner/breeders in collecting DNA samples at their home, and is offering to reimburse the breeder to hire a vet or vet tech, up to $50.00. DNA kits will be sent, and shipping costs for up to $35.00 will also be reimbursed.
It is our hope that this arrangement will make the process of collecting kennels of related terriers simple and realistic. We encourage anyone that may be interested in collecting their terriers ‘in house’ to contact their veterinarian and DNA Bank Chairman, email Cheryl Costello at glenwoodpet@q.com. This information will also be posted on our webpage. www.jrt-research.com
The research foundation is actively seeking owners with terriers affected (or closely related to affected terriers) with primary lens luxation. We must have the families gathered before we can approach the researchers. Please consider participating! We do not require that DNA be drawn from these terriers. Owners may download the “Individual Genetic Data’ form from our website (in the Genetic Survey section), and submit accurate and complete information, along with the pedigree, to:
Stephanie Taylor, DVM
7460 Brandywine Road
Hudson, Ohio 44236
Lens Luxation / Glaucoma Study
In September of 2001 the Jack Russell Terrier Research Foundation gave a donation of $6,400 to this multi-breed study of Lens Luxation/Glaucoma titled "Molecular-Genetic Causes for Canine Lens Luxation and Glaucoma".
This project is ongoing and is seeking samples from affected dogs, their siblings, parents, grandparents and offspring. More distant relatives are also potentially useful but the immediate family is most important.
To submit samples go to the University of Missouri website www.CanineGeneticDiseases.net -- then click on "Glaucoma & Lens Luxation" and select "Sample Submission." On that page are instructions for collecting and handling blood samples and forms for individual terriers and litters. Please include information on the dog's problems and opthalmogic exam reports if possible If you would prefer to have a kit with tubes for samples, mailer and required paperwork, contact Cheryl Costello at glenwoodpet@q.com.
Study Orginated
September 2001
Please donate to help ongoing PLL research!
Status:Active
Primary Researcher
Gary Johnson, DVM
Further reading about Eye Disease in Terriers:
External Link
External Link
External Link
PDF File
Reba
Reba's Story
Reba is a multiple Working and Open Terrier Champion, in addition to having her working certificate to groundhog. Reba was about 4 years old when her CERF tests started coming up "abnormal." None of the ophthalmologist's that examined her could pinpoint what was wrong with her. At 5, Reba's right lens luxated and had to be removed due to a condition called Primary Lens Luxation, or PLL. Three weeks later, the other lens luxated and that was also removed. Even though people told me I should "put her down", Reba was given a chance to live life as a blind dog. To this day, Reba rules the roost around our farm and has even competed in the Master's Den at the Rainier Classic trial.
Sherri Rossmiller