This is the email I have sent to the Boxer Breed Council today. The day we found out that Zozi has moderate aortic stenosis (AS), a congenital heart pathology, caused by a faulty gene in her pedigree.
"I have just had my 6mo Boxer puppy diagnosed with moderate aortic stenosis. This is particularly distressing as I lost a 5yo dog last year to the same condition.
I checked her pedigree for AS, but as you know the data from heart checks is of little use. A cardiologist checked both parents, who were clear of murmur.
Obviously, the genetic link for AS is present in her pedigree but until comprehensive data are collected on deaths from AS in pedigree Boxers, we will continue to receive devastating news like this.
What is the Breed Council doing about this? There is a public awareness of Boxer heart health, and it is damaging the breed. The momentum to reduce AS in Boxers seems to have stalled.
I intend to publish my own research and conclusions on my blog in order to start an online forum, and would welcome your comments."
You can read Themba's story here.