In this edition of Genome Barks we hear from Dr. Bruce Hammerberg of North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Hammerberg discusses allergy season, how it impacts dogs, common allergens, and treatments. Dr. Hammerberg also discusses his CHF-funded research that looks to develop a novel therapeutic drug for canine allergies.

This podcast was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust, a KeyBank Trust.

In this edition of Genome Barks, we welcome Mia Olsson a doctoral student at Uppsala University in Sweeden.  Ms. Olsson discusses Shar Pei Fever and her research on the condition.

Shar Pei Fever is a recurring fever-like condition that is similar to an auto-inflammatory condition in humans.  Ms. Olsson is part of an international research team from Uppsala University and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard who discovered the gene associated with the condition.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome the 2008 winner of the American Kennel Club ACE Award for Search and Rescue, the Bloodhound Taffy and her handler, Doug Williams.  Lee Arnold, Chairman of the AKC Canine Health Foundation, and Mr. Williams discuss Taffy’s accomplishments, school visits, criminal tracking, and community outreach.

In this podcast, Ron Rella, Director of Project Administration for the American Kennel Club, describes the Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence.  The ACE Awards were put into place in 1999 to recognize the extraordinary interdependence of dogs and people.  Mr. Rella explains the qualifications to be nominated for ACE Awards and the different categories for which awards are made.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Anne Hubbs, the Health Committee Chair of the Golden Retriever Club of America.  GRCA and the Golden Retriever Foundation have supported CHF-approved research at more than $300,000 since 1995.  Dr. Hubbs discusses the Golden Retriever lovers’ dedication to canine health and some of the stories that motivated them to support health research, some of the top health concerns in the breed and their participation in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC).

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Leigh Anne Clark, a member of the faculty at Clemson University.  Dr. Clark’s research has focused on canine genetic disease.  In this podcast, we discuss Dr. Clark’s work in dermatomyositis.  Dr. Clark defines the disease, and discusses prevalence, clinical signs, and tips for breeders to help future generations.

 Dr. Leigh Anne Clark attended Texas A&M University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences in 2000. She subsequently entered graduate school and joined the Canine Genetics Laboratory in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Clark's thesis work concerned both the development of microsatellite DNA-based tools and pancreatic acinar atrophy in the German Shepherd Dog. She received a PhD in 2004 and remained in the Canine Genetics Laboratory for her postdoctoral work. Now an Assistant Professor of Genetics and Biochemistry at Clemson University, Dr. Clark's research continues to focus on canine inherited disease.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Catherine Andre’, a CHF-funded researcher and member of the faculty at the University of Rennes in France.  Dr. Andre’ has received funding for her work in malignant histiocytosis in the Bernese Mountain Dog.  Dr. Andre’ describes malignant histiocytosis, breeds at greater risk for this cancer, treatment possibilities, and also her research into ichthyosis in the Golden Retriever and some of her other projects.

 

Dr. Catherine Andre’ graduated with a PhD in molecular genetics and oncology at the Paris University in 1992. Since 1995 she has worked at the University of Rennes in France (CNRS) on canine genomics and genetics. She manages the canine genetics group at CNRS working on the search for the genetic basis of inherited diseases in canines and humans.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Kate Creevy, Assistant Professor in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Georgia with a specialty in small animal medicine and infections disease.  Dr. Creevy discusses the myths of vaccinations and infectious disease, susceptibility to vaccination reactions, regular vaccination schedules and the canine flu vaccine.

 

Dr. Creevy grew up in and around Cincinnati, Ohio, and attended Georgetown University for her undergraduate education.  She earned her DVM from the University of Tennessee in 1998, and completed a rotating small animal internship at the University of Minnesota. She spent the next four years in private practice, initially in a small animal and exotics emergency-only practice in the Twin Cities, and then at Friendship Hospital for Animals, the only 24-hour general and specialty practice in Washington, DC.  She joined the faculty at the University of Georgia in 2003 as an emergency medicine clinician, and subsequently completed both her residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine, and her Master’s degree in Infectious Disease at UGA.  She is currently an Assistant Professor in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Georgia.

The AKC Canine Health Foundation is pleased to release the next podcast in the Genome Barks series. This week, we welcome Dr. Corey Saba, a veterinary oncologist and member of the faculty at the University of Geogia in Athens.  Dr. Saba discusses different treatment options for cancer (including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy), individualized treatments, comparative oncology (bridging canine and human research) and more.

 

Dr. Corey Saba graduated from the Louisiana State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002.  She completed a one-year Small Animal Rotating Internship at Texas A&M University and then went on to complete a three-year Oncology Residency at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  Dr. Saba has been a faculty member at UGA for four years.  Her research interests bridge the laboratory with the clinic and include cell signaling and comparative oncology.

This week, we welcome Dr. Christopher Pachel, a veterinary behaviorist in Portland, Oregon.  Dr. Pachel discusses common behavior issues, prevention and the need for understanding canine body language, the relationship between behavior and illness, and puppy socialization.

 

Dr. Chris Pachel graduated from veterinary school at the University of Minnesota in 2002.  After working as a general practice veterinarian for two years, he completed one year of residency training in veterinary behavior at the University of Minnesota and then an additional 3.5 years of supervised mentorship with Dr. Jacqui Neilson at the Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland, OR.  Dr. Pachel has practiced in the field of veterinary behavior since 2004 and has run a successful housecall behavior practice in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area since 2005 and recently relocated to Portland, OR to join the staff of Animal Behavior Clinic.

 

His approach to behavioral therapy combines learning theory, medical training and experience with compassion and effective communication to create a balanced treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient's needs. Dr. Pachel's approach emphasizes the importance of the human animal bond and the role that companion animals play in the lives of their families.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Bruce Christensen, a board certified theriogenologist at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Christensen discusses pregnancy and whelping, including diagnosis of pregnancy and normal whelping behavior.

 

Dr. Bruce Christensen did his undergraduate training at Brigham Young University in Wildlife Conservation Biology.  He earned his veterinary degree at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York in 2002.  His first year of veterinary employment was as an intern at Garden State Veterinary Hospital in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, working with dogs and cats.  Dr. Christensen then completed 3 years of specialty training and a year of faculty employment at the University of Florida in Gainesville where he focused specifically on the field of theriogenology (animal fertility and reproduction) and worked primarily with dogs and horses.  He became a board-certified specialist in theriogenology in 2006.  After a season of employment as a veterinarian in Australia working with horse reproduction, Dr. Christensen and his family returned to the States and he became employed at Iowa State University in 2008 where he works with dog and horse reproduction.  His research focuses on conservation of endangered species through preservation of sperm and artificial breeding.  His wife, MeLissa, is a veterinarian who works with animal shelters and public health and they have a 4-year-old cowboy named Parker.

 

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome back Dr. Christy Petersen, a member of the faculty of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Petersen discusses the different types of vaccines available and what makes up these vaccines, as well as core vaccines and the best way to time the vaccination process.

Dr. Christy Petersen received her BA in Biology from Johns Hopkins University, DVM from Cornell University and PhD in immunology and infectious diseases from Harvard School of Public Health.  Prior to starting her PhD, Dr. Petersen worked in small animal/exotic practice in Beverly, MA and continued to moonlight through her PhD studies.  This work evolved into being the staff veterinarian for the Worcester Animal Rescue League in Worcester, MA.

Through AKC Canine Health Foundation funding, Dr. Petersen has developed highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tests to determine Leishmania and Brucella infection in dogs prior to seroconversion and is working on assays to determine the likelihood of a good immune response to these fatal infections of both dogs and humans.  These new technologies may lead to vaccine candidates for chronic diseases including but not limited to canine leishmaniasis and brucellosis.

 

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Lin Kauffman, a faculty clinician at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Kauffman discusses veterinary management of the stud dog, including initial physical examination, cryptorchidism, trauma and other things to watch for such as infectious disease.

 

A variety of conditions can affect the stud dog and his ability to produce viable sperm.  It is important for a stud dog owner to understand the importance of cryptorchidism (retained testicle), testicular degeneration, testicular torsion and testicular trauma and what those conditions can do to their stud dog’s breeding potential.  Some of these conditions are temporary and some can have lasting outcomes.  Azoospermia (a lack of sperm) can be noted during a routine breeding soundness examination and can be attributed to a variety of different causes.  Once again there may be some causes that are temporary while other causes may be permanent.  Motility and morphology of sperm can also be assessed during a breeding soundness examination.  Veterinarians can help counsel stud dog owners about potential genetic disease and infectious (venereal) disease testing that is now available for their stud dogs.  It is also important that stud dog owners be aware of the various ways that stud dogs can be utilized in assisted canine reproduction (ex: fresh chilled semen shipment, cryopreservation of semen).

 

Canine prostate disease is a class of diseases that stud dog owners need to be aware of.  There are distinct clinical signs to watch for in their stud dogs and veterinarians have specific tests to determine the difference between benign prostatic hyperplasia, infectious prostatitis, prostatic abscess and prostatic neoplasia (cancer).  Some of these diseases carry specific treatment plans and good outcomes, where others carry a more somber outcome. 

 

Dr. Lin Kauffman received her bachelor of science in veterinary medical technology with minors in biology and chemistry from Wilson College located in Pennsylvania.  She received her DVM from Iowa State University in 2003.  She is a faculty clinician for the Primary Care service at ISU Veterinary Medical Center in addition to being involved in the theriogenology (reproduction) alternative training program at Iowa State University. 

 

She is an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Iowa Veterinary Medical Association (IVMA), Society for Theriogenology, American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), Iowa Veterinary Rapid Response Team (IVRRT) and the Phi Zeta Gamma, Veterinary Honor Society.  She is a faculty advisor to the student-run AAHA chapter.  She has core lectures to the freshman and junior ISU veterinary students over reproduction and has developed and instructs an after-hours canine dental wet laboratory elective for the senior ISU veterinary students. 

 

This week on Genome Barks we welcome Pat Hastings, a lecturer on canine structure, form and function, and the 2001 winner of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America Lifetime Achievement Award.  Mrs. Hastings discusses her structural evaluation process, the importance of breed type, health and temperament when evaluating a litter of puppies, and her caveat of never letting pieces be more important than the whole.  Mrs. Hastings also describes the developmental milestones that breeders should watch for.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Matthew Ellinwood, Assistant Professor of Companion Animal Genomics at Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine.  Genetic diseases can have devastating impact on an animal’s health and well being.  In the case of a genetic disease within a breed or within the breeding program of a dog breeder genetic diseases can be crippling to genetic progress.  In this podcast, Dr. Ellinwood defines the term genetic disease, discusses the avenues taken to eliminate genetic disease, and provides basic recommendations to breeders who are faced with genetic diseases in their breeds.

 

Dr. Matthew Ellinwood received both his DVM and PhD from Colorado State University.  An Assistant Professor of Companion Animal Genomics at Iowa State University, he has focused his research on genetic diseases of both dogs and cats.  Dr. Ellinwood is a member of the Large Munsterlader Club of North America and the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association.  He has 28 years experience breeding, training, hunting over, and testing field trial Labradors and Large Munsterlanders.

This week we welcome back Dr. Joe Wakshlag, a clinical nutritionist at Cornell University.  In this episode of Genome Barks, Dr. Wakshlag defines lifestage nutrition, and describes the breakthroughs in puppy, adult and senior nutritional needs, as well as the special needs of orphan puppies.

Dr. Joseph Wakshlag completed a DVM in 1998 at Cornell University and continued studies in both pathology and nutrition eventually completing a residency in Clinical Nutrition.. In 2005 he completed a PhD in pharmacology where he studied the influence of tissue transglutaminase in mammary carcinoma and amyloid-induced neurodegeneration.  After a short stay in private practice he returned to Cornell Veterinary Medicine as the assistant professor of clinical nutrition and received board certification by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition in June of 2008.  Presently his research interests include carotenoids and fatty acid metabolism in cancer cell biology and metabolism in working dogs.

 

 

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Karl Kraus, Chief of Small Animal Surgery and Professor of Orthopedic and Neurosurgery at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.  His research interests include stem call and bone regeneration as well as orthopedic device development.  In this podcast, we discuss Cruciate Ligament Rupture and Hip Dysplasia.  Dr. Kraus goes into detail about symptoms, treatments and prevention of these common orthopedic diseases.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. David Whitley, a board certified ophthalmologist at Iowa State University.  Dr. Whitley has focused his research efforts on corneal diseases of the dog, and Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I (MPS I).  In this podcast, we discuss the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), what the exam entails, why participating in the CERF registry is important for breeders and owners, and what some of the most common eye diseases are in the dog.

This week on Genome Barks we welcome Dr. Rory Todhunter, professor of surgery at Cornell University.  A Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgery, Dr. Todhunter's research has focused on the orthopedic diseases hip dysplasia and arthritis.

In this podcast, Dr. Todhunter discusses the use of genetic tools to understand inherited orthopedic disease in dogs, additive and threshold traits, and orthopedic tests and treatments.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Nancy Kay, author of "Speaking for Spot:  Be the Advocate Your Dog Needs to Live a Happy, Healthy, Longer Life."  Dr. Kay is a private practitioner who received her veterinary degree from Cornell University and is a specialist in internal medicine.  "Speaking for Spot" is a helpful handbook that contains tips for the savvy dog lover, and provides the right questions so that you get the right answers!

This week on Genome Barks we welcome Sue Pearce-Kelling, President of Optigen, LLC.  Ms. Pearce-Kelling discusses the DNA tests that Optigen offers, the current research projects Optigen is performing, as well as the importance of annual eye exams, and the purposes of both DNA tests and eye exams.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Chad Reese, Assistant Brand Manager for Veterinary Diets with Nestle Purina PetCare Company.  Mr. Reese outlines several therapeutic diets from Purina available exclusively through your veterinarian, including diets for joint mobility, allergies and gastrointestinal issues.  Mr. Reese also discusses some of the science behind the diets, and talks about the different research facilities.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Cynthia O’Connor.  Dr. O’Connor is currently pursuing advanced specialty training in the area of veterinary medical genetics, pediatrics, and reproduction at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine. 

In this podcast, Dr. O’Connor discusses the importance of knowing what is “normal” in parturition and whelping as well as recognizing the signs of a female in whelp and determining the whelping date.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. N. Sydney Moise, a certified veterinary cardiologist and professor of medicine at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Moise's research interests include cardiac arrhythmias and mitral valve disease.  In this podcast, Dr. Moise discusses the symptoms of heart disease, what cardiac tests should be performed and the treatments available for cardiac disease.

This week we welcome Dr. Vicki Meyers-Wallen, a certified theriogenologist at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.  Recorded at the recent Breeders’ Symposium hosted by Cornell University’s Baker Institute for Animal Health, Dr. Meyers-Wallen discusses the finer points of choosing a sire and dam as well as timing the breeding, various insemination techniques and signs of labor and distress.

 

Vicki Meyers-Wallen received both her V.M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and is board certified in Theriogenology (veterinary reproduction, American College of Theriogenologists). She received clinical residency training in Genetics, Reproduction and Pediatrics in the Section of Medical Genetics at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, then had a dual faculty appointment there in the Sections of Medical Genetics and Reproduction until 1989.  She then became a faculty member at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, where she created and was Chief of the Small Animal Fertility and Infertility Service (SAFIS). That service provided fertility evaluations, breeding services, urological services and genetic counseling for purebred dogs and cats. In 2003 she left clinical service to devote more time to her research program. She is presently an Associate Professor in Genetics and Reproduction at the Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, and is an active member of the University Faculty Senate.

 

This week on Genome Barks we welcome Dr. David Brewer, a resident in neurology at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Brewer discusses the various genetic tests that are available for neurologic diseases, and explains epilepsy - what it is, how it gets diagnosed and what treatment options are available.

This week on Genome Barks we welcome Dr. Gail Czarnecki-Mauldin, Senior Research Nutritionist with Nestle Purina.  Dr. Czarnecki-Mauldin received her PhD in Nutrition from the University of Illinois.  She discusses the use of probiotics in dogs, including explaining the difference between beneficial and harmful bacteria, differences among microflora, and indications for the use of probiotics.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. David Vail of University of Wisconsin, Madison.  A certified veterinary oncologist, Dr. Vail's research focuses on novel cancer therapeutics.  In this podcast, Dr. Vail discusses various forms of cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation therapy delivery, as well as the translational nature of the research he performs, and its effectiveness in helping both dogs and humans live longer, healthier lives.

This week on the Genome Barks Podcast series, we welcome Mike Allway, the Manager of Breeder Enthusiast Services for the Nestlé Purina PetCare Company, based in St. Louis, Missouri.  Mike discusses the Purina Parent Club Partnership (PPCP) Program, which is an alliance between Purina, approved national breed clubs, or Parent Clubs, and the Canine Health Foundation.  The PPCP program was established to promote canine health and well-being, and since its inception in 2002, has raised more than $3.0 million in support of health research, education and rescue.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Ann Viklund, Director of Marketing for the Breeder Enthusiast Group of Nestle Purina PetCare Company.  Ann explains Purina's Pro Club program and how it can save you money, help your puppy buyers, provide access to informational resources, support your Parent Club and support canine health research for your breed through the Canine Health Foundation.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome back Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt, a specialist in internal medicine and infectious disease at North Carolina State University.  Dr. Breitschwerdt has received funding from the Canine Health Foundation for various infectious diseases (visit www.CanineHealthFoundation.org for more information on Dr. Breitschwerdt's research) including Bartonella spp.  In this podcast, Dr. Breitschwerdt describes several common tick borne illness, including Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis and Lyme Disease.  Dr. Breitschwerdt also shares the symptoms to watch for and what treatments are available.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt, a specialist in internal medicine and infectious disease at North Carolina State University.  Dr. Breitschwerdt has received funding from the Canine Health Foundation for various infectious diseases (visit www.caninehealthfoundation.org for more information on Dr. Breitschwerdt’s research) including Bartonella spp.  In this podcast, Dr. Breitschwerdt describes Bartonella, explains what clinical signs to look for in a potentially ill animal, and also discusses the various research projects underway.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Kathy Michel, Associate Professer of Veterinary Nutrition at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.  A Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, Dr. Michel discusses therapeutic diets, feeding dogs with illness and other topics useful for dogs with health challenges.

This week we welcome Dr. Jerold Bell, the Director of Clinical Veterinary Genetics Course at the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.  In this interview, Dr. Bell discusses why genetic testing is important, describes the different types of genetic tests and how to best use the test results.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome back Eddie Dziuk, COO of the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, and Administrator of the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC).  Mr. Dziuk discusses the mission and objectives of the CHIC DNA Databank, the differences between the American Kennel Club DNA profile program and CHIC and other important factors about the CHIC DNA Databank. 

This week Genome Barks welcomes Mike Sampson, an expert in emergency management and preparedness.  An adjunct lecturer at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Mr. Sampson discusses the One Health concept and its implications to both human and veterinary research.  Additional topics include public health as it relates to veterinary medicine and the detection and treatment of illness like SARS and the latest influenza virus, H1N1.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Heidi Parker of the National Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health.  Dr. Parker has been studying how different purebred dogs are related genetically.  This research will be instrumental in determining how different breeds share disease.  How can the Great Dane and the Chihuahua be members of the same species?  Listen and find out!

This week, the Genome Barks Podcast Series welcomes Dr. Greg Keller, Chief of Veterinary Services with the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA).  Dr. Keller shares with us the history of the OFA and discusses the many health databases that the OFA manages.  Dr. Keller also explains the OFA process for evaluating radiographs and the differences between OFA evaluations and those of PennHip.

The AKC and Canine Health Foundation Genome Barks Podcast series welcomes Dr. Deborah Greco, Senior Research Scientist at Nestle Purina PetCare Company.  Dr. Greco has spent her 30 years in practice studying endocrinology, reproduction and nutrition.  In this interview, Dr. Greco discusses the art and science of supplementation and pro-biotics, as well as optimum proteins and general nutrition as they pertain to developing and maintaining good haircoat.

Genome Barks welcomes Dr. Jaime Modiano, a member of the faculty of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota.  Dr. Modiano has spent the last 15 years of his career looking at the mechanisms that are responsible for the origin and progression of canine cancer.    Dr. Modiano’s current research focuses on better cancer therapies, singling out the canine immune system as a treatment for cancers that are in the process of spreading to various regions of the body.

This week, the Genome Barks podcast series welcomes Dr. Simon Gregory, a human cancer researcher at Duke University.  Dr. Gregory is working with Dr. Matthew Breen of North Carolina State University on brain tumors.  This podcast discusses the similarities between human and canine disease.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. John Tegzes of Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California.  Dr. Tegzes is Professor of Toxicology and has specialized in clinical toxicology.  In this podcast, we discuss the number one poison to watch for, as well as the dangers of chocolate and plants.  Dr. Tegzes also talks about the warning signs that your animal has been poisoned.

This week, the Genome Barks podcast series welcomes Dr. Curt Bird of Auburn University in Alabama.  Dr. Bird discusses mammary cancer in dogs, including age of onset and potential preventive measures.  Dr. Bird also talks about genetic predispositions to mammary cancer.

Dr. Leslie Monroe joins us this week on Genome Barks.  Dr. Monroe is currently doing a residency in nutrition at the University of California, Davis.  She discusses bloat and the research that has been done in recent years.

This week on Genome Barks we welcome Dr. Keith Murphy, the Director of Clemson University’s Genomics Institute.  Dr. Murphy talks about canine hereditary nephropathy in English Cocker Spaniels, known as Alport Syndrome in the human.  In the human, the cure for Alport Syndrome is kidney transplant; not a viable option in the dog.  Dr. Murphy and his team have determined the genetic cause of hereditary nephropathy in the English Cocker Spaniel, and Dr. Murphy discusses the use of the genetic test by breeders.

This week on Genome Barks, we are pleased to present Dr. William Kisseberth of the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  Funded by the Canine Health Foundation, Dr. Kisseberth’s team is working to determine the genetic components of canine cancer for potential targets for new cancer therapy drug development.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Richard Goldstein, a faculty member at Cornell University with a specialty in genetic and infectious diseases of the kidney.  Recorded at the August Breeders’ Symposium held in Syracuse, New York, Dr. Goldstein discusses vaccination protocols, including maternal antibodies in the puppy, timing of vaccinations (both in the puppy and in the dam), frequency of vaccine boosters and geriatric care.  Dr. Goldstein also explains the difference between “core” and “non-core” vaccines and other various elements of canine vaccinations.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Marc Kraus, a faculty member at Cornell University with a specialty in veterinary cardiology.  Recorded at the August 2008 Breeders’ Symposium held in Syracuse, New York, Dr. Kraus talks about heart murmurs in puppies and the the various treatment options that are currently available.  Dr. Kraus also discusses the best age to begin screening for heart disease in the dog, and the importance of knowing your pedigrees and the health history of a breeding pair.

This week, Genome Barks and Lee Arnold, vice chairman of the AKC Canine Health Foundation, welcome Dr. Steven Suter of North Carolina State University, who is currently working to develop canine lymphoma cell lines.  These cell lines will greatly enhance lymphoma research by providing a research tool to study the disease on a cellular level and determine the molecular behavior of lymphoma.

This week on Genome Barks, Lee Arnold, of the AKC and Canine Health Foundation Boards of Directors welcomes Dr. Adam Birkenheuer, a member of the faculty of North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Birkenheuer is a specialist in infectious disease, and will be discussing his research to determine the root cause of chronic rhinitis in dogs.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Heather Flaherty of Iowa State University.  A veterinary pathology specialist, Dr. Flaherty discusses various tests used to aid in the diagnosis of Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia and Leukemia.

This week on Genome Barks, AKC Canine Health Foundation Vice-Chair Lee Arnold welcomes Dr. Natasha Olby of North Carolina State University.  A veterinary neurologist, Dr. Olby has received funding from the CHF to study cerebellar cortical degeneration in several breeds.  In this podcast, Mr. Arnold and Dr. Olby discuss what breeds are involved in the research and what progress is being made.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Sylvia Bedford, a faculty member at Cornell University with a specialty in veterinary reproduction.  Recorded at the August Breeders’ Symposium held in Syracuse, New York, Dr. Bedford discusses various elements of healthy reproduction factors, such as age, vaccines and environment.  She also goes into detail about artificial insemination methods and practices, and the variety of success rates with each.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Adam Birkenheuer, a member of the faculty of North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Birkenheuer is a specialist in infectious disease, and will be discussing “bugs” that can make our dogs sick, including parvovirus, kennel cough, mange and tick borne disease.  Dr. Birkenheuer will also discuss the management of infectious disease in multiple dog homes or kennel situations.

This week on Genome Barks, Dr. Gillian McClellan talks about canine eye disease.  Dr. McClellan, an ophthalmologist for the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the University of Wisconsin – Madison College of Veterinary Medicine, discusses some of the differences between human and canine eyes, as well as things to watch out for that could threaten a dog’s vision.  Finally, Dr. McClellan speaks to the various inherited canine ophthalmic diseases that breeders should be aware of.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Cheryl London, a faculty member at the Ohio State University with a specialty in veterinary oncology.  Dr. London discusses her research in canine cancer, including malignant histiocytosis, mast cell tumors and osteosarcoma.  A recipient of several grants from the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Dr. London has recently focused her research on osteosarcoma with a collaboration at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, OH.  Dr. London also discusses how her research will benefit children as well as dogs. This podcast brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

 

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Linda Bell, of PetPartners Inc. who talks about the American Kennel Club’s pet healthcare plan.

The American Kennel Club^® selected PetPartners, Inc. as the dedicated provider for the AKC Pet Healthcare Plan.  Increasing numbers of pet owners are finding that pet health insurance is a more secure way of planning for unexpected veterinary bills, to avoid counting on unreliable credit options in these uncertain times.

Linda Bell, Chief Marketing Officer at PetPartners, added, “The holiday season is a perfect time to consider the gift of a healthcare plan for your pet.  Should your pet have an unexpected accident or illness, knowing that you will be able to provide the best veterinary care could be the greatest present for the whole family.”

During the busy holiday season when family and friends visit, it is easy for dogs to get up to mischief behind their owners’ backs, with tempting food, candies, toys, and tree ornaments in all too easy reach – often with expensive outcomes, such as these real claims for veterinary bills, paid by PetPartners:

• Ate a kitchen towel                                           $3,738 paid
• Ingested a chicken bone                                     $2,699 paid
• Swallowed a rubber chew toy                            $1,552 paid
• Ate Christmas garland                                       $3,325 paid
• Slipped on ice and tore cruciate ligament             $3,279 paid
• Chewed on a hand warmer                                $1,424 paid

The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan offers a range of annual plans to suit different needs including illnesses, accidents and preventative care, starting at just the equivalent of 35 cents a day. For more information visit www.akcphp.com or call PetPartners, Inc. at 866-725-2747.

In this week’s Genome Barks podcast, CHF Director Lee Arnold welcomes Bruce Hammerberg, DVM, PhD, a professor of immunology and parasitology at the College of Veterinary Medicine North Carolina State University.  Funded in part by the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Dr. Hammerberg has spent the last decade studying the function of mast cells and IgE in allergic diseases.

The essential cause of the itching skin that starts atopic dermatitis reactions has been well known for decades, yet we do not know why there is an alarming increase in the number of dogs afflicted with this disease and we do not know why some dogs suffer much more than others living in the same environment.  The cause of the itching skin is histamine and other mast cell products that are released when mast cells coated with the immunoglobulin IgE binds allergens such as house dust mite or pollen proteins.  All dogs have mast cells in their skin and many without the disease have IgE that specifically bind allergens.  The ever increasing numbers and complexity of genetic factors being discovered that predispose humans to allergic diseases are likely to be found as similarly daunting obstacles to fully understanding the genetic basis for canine atopic dermatitis.

Working with breeds as diverse as the West Highland White Terrier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback, Dr. Hammerberg has focused his attention on atopy (allergies) in genetically susceptible dogs, working to develop markers to predict disease development in puppies.

This week, Genome Barks is pleased to introduce Dr. Karen Kline, a veterinary neurologist.  Board certified in neurology by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Dr. Kline is actively involved in both teaching and clinical service at Iowa State University.

According to Dr. Kline, dogs with central nervous system (CNS) diseases make up a large number of admissions to veterinary hospitals in North America.  These diseases are of infectious, immune-mediated, cancerous, vascular, traumatic, congenital or degenerative origin.  In this podcast, Dr. Kline discusses various canine neurological diseases, such as caudal occipital malformation syndrome (COMS) and seizures, and their clinical signs and treatments. This podcast brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

 

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Joe Wakshlag, a faculty member at Cornell University with a specialty in veterinary nutrition.  Recorded at the August Breeders’ Symposium held in Syracuse, New York, Dr. Wakshlag discusses the recent commercial pet food scares and non-traditional diets, as well as specific nutrition requirements for pregnant and lactating bitches and canine cancer patients. This podcast brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

This week on Genome Barks, Lee Arnold, a member of the Board of Directors of the AKC Canine Health Foundation, welcomes veterinary orthopedist Dr. Denis Marcellin-Little from North Carolina State University.  Dr. Marcellin-Little is the recipient of a grant from the AKC Canine Health Foundation to further his research in elbow dysplasia.  Elbow dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic problems affecting large and giant breed dogs.  However, early diagnosis of the condition, critical if it is to be treated before the development of arthritis, is rarely possible with conventional X-rays.  Dr. Marcellin-Little discusses the results of his completed grant where he studied the tools available to diagnose elbow dysplasia in several breeds. This podcast brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

 

This week, Genome Barks welcomes Dr. Wendy Ware, a Professor in the Departments of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, and Staff Cardiologist at the ISU Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
 
A clinical cardiologist and instructor of cardiology and cardiovascular physiology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State, Dr. Ware discusses topics such as the most prevalent cardiac diseases in dogs and screening recommendations for breeds with predispositions to cardiac disease.  Dr. Ware also addresses the symptoms to watch for if heart disease is suspected. This podcast has been brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.
 

This week on Genome Barks, we hear from Tom Sharp, CEO of the American Kennel Club's Companion Animal Recovery Corporation. Created in 1995, this non-profit organization is dedicated to identification of all pets, especially with microchips, to the end of reuniting owners with their lost pets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The essence of their operating strategy is their commitment to recovering lost pets. It is this compassion that fuels their Recovery Coordinators to provide such excellence in customer service. They understand the love that you have for your pets. This compassion combined with a network of veterinarians, shelters, dog clubs and support groups that are all focused on identification and recovery has allowed AKC CAR to become the nation's largest non-profit recovery service. Their employees know that their daily actions will make a difference in someone's life. They are dedicated to serving you and your pets.

AKC CAR's Microchip ID System, launched in 2007, brings the technology of Trovan, a world leader in microchip identification, to America's pet owners. AKC CAR offers a comprehensive identification system with a leading chip, multi-purpose scanners and AKC CAR's recovery service, all at a great price. You can learn more at www.akccar.org .

This podcast brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

 

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This week on Genome Barks, the American Kennel Club and AKC Canine Health Foundation is pleased to welcome Dr. Claudia Orlandi, author of the ABC’s of Dog Breeding Home Study Program.  Dr. Orlandi’s belief that anyone can and should understand the basic and important rules of canine genetics in his quest to breed better, healthier dogs prompted her to develop this unique, step-by-step approach to better breeding.

Dr. Orlandi's involvement with showing dogs began as a Junior Handler. She currently breeds Basset Hounds under the Topsfield prefix on 200 acres in northern Vermont. Claudia has bred over 100 champions, including many record holding Bassets within the breed and all breed arena. Topsfield Bassets have won multiple Pedigree and Nature's Recipe awards and have been Westminster Breed winners and Number One Basset Hound All Systems from 2000 to the present. A teacher by profession, she has been actively involved in education within the Basset Hound Club of America and as a lecturer. She has served on the BHCA Health & Research Committee, the Judges' Education committee and is currently Chairman of Member Education for BHCA for which she has designed an innovative concept called "Basset Hound University". She authors a column called "Breeder's Toolbox" in the BHCA newsletter and has designed "The Pedi-Score Tool Kit: A Recording System for Basset Hound Breeders." She has also written Discover the Basset Hound and in addition to the ABC's of Dog Breeding seminar, presents a workshop called Practical Canine Anatomy for Judges and Breeders. She judges Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, PBGV's and Junior Showmanship.

This week on Genome Barks, we welcome Dr. Christy Petersen of Iowa State University, a specialist in immunology and infectious diseases. Her research has focused on developing more sensitive and accurate tests to determine the presence of Leishmaniasis in dogs. In this podcast, Dr. Petersen discusses infectious diseases of which breeders and owners should be aware, and signs to look for to determine if your pet has an infectious disease. This podcast is brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

This week's edition of Genome Barks is a follow up to our recent interview with Dr. Matthew Breen. Dr. Breen, while a world renowned cancer researcher, is also the Treasurer of the Canine Comparative Oncology & Genomics Consortium (CCOGC). Jointly sponsored by the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Morris Animal Foundation, and Pfizer, the CCOGC is a collaboration of Veterinary and Medical Oncologists, Pathologists, Surgeons, Geneticists, and Molecular and Cellular Biologists. This group determined that a well-described repository of tissues (tumor and normal) from tumor bearing dogs was an essential resource needed for advancing our understanding of canine cancer. The biospecimen repository houses tumor tissue, normal tissues, serum, plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cell preparations, genomic DNA, RNA and urine samples. The goal is to optain 3,000 samples of lymphoma, osteosarcoma, melanoma, hemangiosarcoma, soft tissue sarcoma/histiocytic sarcoma, mast cell tumors and lung cancer. 

In this edition of Genome Barks Lee Arnold, Vice President of the AKC Canine Health Foundation welcomes Dr. Matthew Breen of the North Carolina State University Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences. Dr. Breen, recent winner of Asa Mays DVM,  Excellence in Canine Health Research Award, gives us insight into Lymphoma and other canine cancers and explains the usefulness of the canine model for human research. Dr. Breen played a key role in the mapping of the canine genome and now uses his skills and resources to focus on the molecular cytogenetic evaluation of canine tumors as a means to discover the genes involved in the initiation and progression of cancers. In addition to his activities at NCSU, Dr. Breen was a founding member and now serves on the Board of Directors of the Canine Comparative Oncology and Genomics Consortium, Inc (CCOGC). This podcast is brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

This week on Genome Barks, Eddie Dziuk, The Chief Operating Officer of the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals talks with Erika Werne about the Canine Health Information Center. Established in 2001, CHIC is the joint venture between the AKC Canine Health Foundation and OFA that serves as a central database of health information as well as a DNA Repository.  At the North Carolina State Breeders' Symposium jointly sponsored by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Mr. Dziuk discusses the pros and cons of the two methods of DNA collection, exactly how the "recommended tests" become recommended in the first place, as well as the "gold standard" of genetic tests, and how it will impact breeding decisions.

Erika Werne, Director of Canine Education, Communications, and Club Relations for the AKC Canine Health Foundation, welcomes Dr. Sarah Stone of the Ohio State University to this edition of Genome Barks. One of the most common health issues facing both humans and their canine companions is cataracts. While cataract surgery is the most frequently performed intraocular operation, there is a nearly 100% incidence of capsular scarring post-surgery in dogs. Dr. Stone's research, funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation, focuses on developing new techniques to decrease this occurrence, and in turn improving the lives of dogs.  At the Ohio State Breeders' Symposium jointly sponsored by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Dr. Stone discusses her research and the progress made thus far.

 

On this edition of Genome Barks, Dr. Lin Kauffman discusses common reproduction issues.  As assisted reproductive techniques become more common in the purebred dog world, there is more interest in advancing the science behind them.  At the Iowa State Breeders' Symposium jointly sponsored by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Dr. Kauffman outlines the three main concerns today's breeders face, and explains how to address them.

Dr. Matthew Ellinwood discusses the genome sequence and its significance in developing the tools necessary for responsible breeders.  Recorded at the Iowa State Breeders' Symposium jointly sponsored by the American Kennel Club and the AKC Canine Health Foundation.