Invermectin Sensivity in Canine Herding Breeds & Some Others

If you have a dog that is all or part herding breed, or a Longhaired Whippet or Silken Windhound (who have Sheltie in them), then read this. Not all vets are aware of this, though awareness is growing every day.

These dogs may have a trait or be carriers of a genetically transmitted recessive trait that makes them susceptible to Ivermectin (heartworm treatment). The effects are generally lethal. They should not be treated for heartworm with Ivermectin or allowed around livestock manure of animals treated with Ivermectin.

I just found the following site, which has a pretty good description and tells you where to go to get your dog tested for the genetic mutation, commonly referred to as MDR1 (multi-drug resistance).

Unfortunately, many people (vets and breeders included) are not yet aware of this. But the word is spreading. Please pass this on to your family and friends who own collies, aussies, shelties, border collies, cattle dogs, etc. mixes. Maybe we can save some lives.

http://www.miniaussierescue.org/BusterAlert/bustersPage.html

Kathleen