Summary of genetic studies of Chiari-like Malformation with Syringomyelia(CM/SM) in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS)  

Clare Rusbridge BVMS PhD DipECVN MRCVS, European and RCVS Specialist in Neurology, Penny Knowler BSc (Hons)  Stone Lion Veterinary Center, Wimbledon, UK SW19 5AU  

This study was initiated in 2000 when research suggested a possible hereditary basis for CM/SM. We constructed a genealogy and database which currently holds 11,800 related CKCS dogs including over 700 MRI confirmed dogs with relevant phenotypic information and over 1,500 DNA samples.

INTERNATIONAL SM DONATION

ACCOUNT 

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Canada believes the Genome Study (in Montreal) is extremely important and has donated funds raised by our Club members. 

We would like to see other Cavalier Clubs and individuals (breeders and pet owners) donate to this project and other projects requiring funding. 

We have set up a bank account monitored by our Club to which donations can be made.  If you would like your donation directed to a particular Study that can be stipulated.   

If you wish to donate to SM research but are not sure where to direct your donation simple make your cheque or money order payable to:  INTERNATIONAL SM DONATION ACCOUNT 

Mail it to:

Judith Weir,

144 Nawautin Dr.,

Grafton, Ontario, Canada,

K0K 2G0.

A DONATION IN SOMEONE’S NAME IS A WONDERFUL GIFT

Chiari Research Conference November 2008 

On November 6^th and 7^th of 2008 a professional research conference was held. Dr Guy Rouleau of McGill University in Montreal, Canada who is co investigating the gene(s) responsible for CM/SM with lead investigator Dr Zoha Kibar, Dr Guy Rouleau was one of many researchers speaking at this conference.  

The conference was sponsored by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the Office of Rare Diseases, the University of Illinois-Chicago, the University of Akron, Conquer Chiari, Column of Hope, and the American Syringomyelia Alliance Project, was held in order to establish the current state of knowledge regarding Chiari malformation. More than 40 surgeons, scientists, and other professionals attended this conference. 

Chiari-like Malformation and Syringomyelia in The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
UPDATE—December 2008  

Since the very important International Conference held in Rugby, England in November  2006, research has continued into this condition.  The Cavalier King Charles Club of Canada is very proud to be involved in two studies taking place in Canada.