Genetics of adverse reactions to anesthetic and sedative drugs in Chow-Chows

A genetic mutation has been discovered in Chow-Chow dogs that is associated with unexpectedly excessive, and in some cases life-threatening, responses to administration of certain sedative and anesthetic drugs, including butorphanol, acepromazine, trazodone, hydromorphone, ketamine and midazolam.  The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of this mutation within the Chow-Chow breed and across different dog breeds, especially those breeds most closely related to Chow-Chows, including Shar-Pei, Shiba Inu, Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Tibetan Mastiff.  We will also collect information regarding the response/s of each dog to sedative and anesthetic drug administration.

Participation Requirements:

Inclusion: AKC registered dog in one of the 7 included breeds; a history of being sedated or anesthetized.  DNA samples from other dog breeds may be considered for submission if there is a history of hypersensitivity to sedative or anesthetic drugs that can be supported by veterinary medical records.

Exclusion: Siblings (only one dog from the same Dam/Sire pair); dogs that have never been sedated or anesthetized.  The target enrollment is 300 individuals for Chow-Chows, and 30 individuals for other breeds.  Once these targets have been met, only dogs with a history of hypersensitivity to sedative or anesthetic drugs that can be supported by veterinary medical records will be considered for inclusion.

Owner's Responsibilities (Samples and information to be collected):

Collect DNA sample using supplied cheek swab; complete and sign study permission and dog information sheets; mail samples and completed information sheets back to laboratory.  Requested information includes owner name, address, email, phone number, dog call name, registered name, AKC number, age, sex, and history of sedative/anesthetic drug use and response to these drugs.