Why test your dog for Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) syndrome?

Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) is a syndrome characterised by otherwise fit and healthy dogs collapsing after exercise. A dog suffering from EIC would get weak or lose balance after just 5 to 10 minutes of intense physical activity.

While the disease was only recently identified in 1993, studies went on to show that it is caused by a recessive hereditary trait, the source being a gene mutation in the central nervous system. Because it is a recessive trait, it is possible that your dog may not exhibit any symptom at all but carry the gene and pass it onto their offspring.

Owners of dogs need to be aware if their pets carry the EIC gene to keep them away from strenuous and distressing activities that may possibly trigger the condition. An accurate diagnosis of EIC is key to having better control of your pet’s health.

What are the risks of EIC

Most dogs that carry a single copy of the EIC gene usually appear normal and would not display serious symptoms of the disorder. But these dogs suddenly collapse after doing strenuous or exciting activity, especially during a hot day. Symptoms usually get worse for 3 to 5 minutes after the exercise or training.

While most dogs stay conscious during episodes and recover soon, as many as 25% of affected dogs have experienced disorientation and loss of consciousness. In some cases, dogs suffering from EIC die during exercise or while resting afterwards.

Here are some of the classic signs of EIC to watch out for:

 

  • Unstable gait with loose strides
  • Loss of balance and coordination
  • Weak back legs that fails to bear the dog’s own weight
  • Flaccid muscles
  • Collapse

 

Again, not every dog suffering from EIC will display the classic signs of the disease, which are wobbliness, weakness, and collapse after exercise. Some dogs do not display any symptom at all but may carry the responsible gene.

For these reasons, it is important to have your dog properly diagnosed through a reliable Dog Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) Test.

Breeds tested for the disease

The disease can affect any dog of any breed, but Labrador Retrievers seem to be at greatest risk of carrying the gene defect. Aside from Labrador Retrievers, here are all the dog breeds we are testing for EIC:

 

  • Australian Labradoodle
  • Bouvier des Flandres
  • Boykin Spaniel
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever
  • Cockapoo
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Curly-Coated Retriever
  • German Wirehaired Pointer
  • Labradoodle
  • Labrador Retriever
  • Old English Sheepdog
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Currently, we cannot test for breeds not included in the list. We can test mixed breed dogs as long as one or more of their breeds is found in the list above.

Cost of the Dog EIC test

The Dog EIC test is being offered at only R1495 for a sample of one dog. There is an option to order more tests for an additional cost.

How the Dog EIC test is carried out

Your dog may carry the EIC gene and not display the classic symptoms. On the other hand, your dog may show weakness during exercise but not have EIC. In any case, taking the EasyDNA Dog EIC Test will give you peace of mind to understand your dog’s true condition.

The process of our Dog EIC test is simple and straightforward. Upon ordering your test, we will send you a sample collection kit that allows you to collect your dog’s cheek swab samples. The kit comes with complete instructions to guide you through the process. Using our kit, there is no need to draw blood or go to the veterinarian for sample collection.

Once you are able to collect your dog’s DNA sample, put the swabs back in the collection envelope provided. Use this envelope to send the samples back to our laboratory for testing.

Your test results

After our laboratory receives your dog’s sample, you can expect to receive your test results via email in 7 working days from receipt of samples at the laboratory. You will receive one of three possible outcomes:

 

  • CLEAR result: Your dog has inherited 2 good genes that are free from defects or mutations.
  • CARRIER result: Your dog has inherited 1 normal copy of the gene and 1 mutated copy. This means that the animal has a 50% likelihood of passing on the condition to their offspring.
  • AFFECTED result: Your dog has inherited 2 copies of the mutated gene and is at risk of suffering the life-threatening impacts of EIC.

 

EasyDNA uses the latest in DNA testing technology, assuring you that the results of your EIC test are highly accurate and reliable. If you need more information regarding this test, please contact our Customer Service or email us directly.

Other Dog Disease Genetic Tests from EasyDNA

At EasyDNA we offer a range inherited disease screening tests such as the EIC including the following:

 

 

We also offer a comprehensive genetic screening test covering 175+ diseases and traits through our DogCheck Genetic Screening Test. This is one of the most comprehensive tests on the market ideal to manage the health of your dog and for breeders.

Other Dog DNA Tests from EasyDNA

We also offer a wide range of other types of dog DNA tests looking at different personal aspects of your dog such as the Dog Allergy Test and the Dog Breed Test.

Find out more about your dog and start your journey to a healthier pet!

Dog Multidrug Resistance 1 (MDR1) Test
DogCheck (Canine) Genetic Disease Test
Dog Allergy Test
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