Changes in the anatomy of the lower spine at the transition from the lumbar to the sacral vertebrae predispose dogs to the painful causa equina syndrome (CES). Familial clustering in predisposed breeds such as the Belgian and Dutch Shepherd suggest that these anatomical changes are heritable. In collaboration with Prof. Dr. Frank Steffen from the Animal Hospital of the University of Zurich, we would like to investigate the genetics of the anatomy of lumbosacral transition vertebrae. For this we need EDTA blood samples and X-rays of Belgian and Dutch Shepherds. We ask breeders, owners and veterinarians for their help and samples.
