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Juvenile Cataracts Progression A Jack Russell Terrier Case Study The first image shows the terrier's CERF results from January 2000 through May 2001. The second shows the same terrier's results from November 2001 through November 2002. For larger images visit www.myjackrussell.com The CERF test diagrams on the right show the progression of juvenile cataracts starting in a 2-year-old-terrier. The CERF tests shown are over a 2 year period. It is frightening to think that this terrier was affected at such a young age. Note the captions beside the diagrams. Although there is no pain involved, the terrier will have compromised vision. The breeder opted to remove the terrier from the breeding program by neutering the dog after the cataracts were discovered. Juvenile cataracts can appear anytime from puppyhood to 5 years of age, making young breeding of a bitch or stud a higher risk proposition than breeding with a terrier that is over 5 years old who is CERFing clear. Assumably we will reduce our risk over time by testing and breeding with the intelligence that testing brings us. The development of a genetic marker test through studies like the UC Davis JRT Genetic Study can help breeders to remove uncertainty of genetic issues. Ultimately, a genetic test would reduce breeding risk even more than CERF testing will.
	Click on the images to see larger versions that will open in a new window. The first image shows the terrier's CERF results from January 2000 through May 2001. The second shows the same terrier's results from November 2001 through November 2002.
Can this happen to my terriers? CERF tests are the best way to examine a terrier's eye's for problems such as Juvenile Cataracts. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) or Primary Lens Luxation. A regular veterinary exam may miss the common genetic diseases that we find in the Jack Russell Terrier. Specialists who are Veterinary Ophthalmologists have specific tools and training to evaluate these eye issues. CERF stands for Canine Eye Registration Foundation, which is an independent organization for all dog breeds. Once you have had your terrier's eyes examined, you can register the test results with CERF by following the instructions on the back of your CERF form. CERF website: http://www.vmdb.org	More information Canine Genetic Analysis Project cgap.ucdavis.edu Canine Eye Registration Foundation CERF Web site
Article written by Sandi Pensinger