Endowment At Work Timeline

SCWTCA ENDOWMENT, INC. –
SUPPORTING WHEATEN HEALTH, RESEARCH, AND EDUCATION

•SCWTCA Endowment Origins

  • 1995 established the SCWTCA Health Fund

  • 2001 created a separate non-profit

  • 2004 incorporated as the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., gained 501(c)3 status

•Ongoing Fecal A1PI Kit Program

This kit was created to eliminate the owner’s cost of a vet submitting samples to the TAMU GI Lab and to insure the samples arrived frozen to the lab for accurate testing of intestinal protein loss. The kit continues to be made available by the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., at manufacturer’s cost. Distribution points set throughout the US & Canada.

Approved by SCWTCA, Inc.; Distributed by the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•2002 & 2004 AKC-CHF Grant 2219: Longitudinal Clinical Study, Mode of Inheritance and Therapeutic Trial of PLE/PLN in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

From birth comparison of SCWTs fed hypoallergenic diet with SCWTs fed normal diet. AKC-CHF provided oversight for grant administration. SCWTCA matched funds for two prior related grants starting in 1996.

Researcher: Shelly Vaden DVM PhD DACVIM, North Carolina State University

Funding: $55,600 Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment.

•2003, 2004 Adopt a Colony Dog Fundraiser

The Colony Dogs living at NC State University were used in numerous research grants to Dr. Shelly Vaden starting in 2003. This project was a coordinated fundraising campaign among individual and regional clubs to support the dogs’ daily care and well-being. Gifts were solicited by the Endowment and paid directly to NCSU Veterinary Medical Foundation.

Researcher: Shelly Vaden DVM PhD DACVIM North Carolina State University 
Funding: $13,300 for expenses. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc.; Funded by the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., $145,450

•2006 AKC-CHF: Genetic Determinants of Malignant Melanoma

Researcher: Michael Kent DVM, University of California - Davis

Funding: $1,000. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment.

•2006 Investigation of Antigenic Causes of Vaccine-Associated Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Researcher: Dr. George Moore, Purdue University.

•2006 4th Annual AKC-CHF Canine Cancer Conference: Genes, Dogs, & Cancer

Several prominent researchers. Addressed identifying genetic markers for specific diseases and possible avenues to find new therapies to combat diseases. Helped sponsor the conference; received complementary registration for two conference attendees.

Attendees: Elaine Azerolo and Susan McGee.

Funding: $5,000. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment.

•2007 & 2008 University of Missouri Canine Phenome Project

The purpose of the Canine Phenome Project: to establish a DNA bank with supporting data for use by researchers to identify the genes responsible for canine diseases and other characteristics. For Wheaten owners, an opportunity to store DNA from Wheatens for future use by researchers interested in finding the genetic cause of PLE, PLN, RD, Addison's, and/or other diseases. NIH Lifetime Study and Siblings Pair Study included.

•2007-2008 National Institutes of Health: Lifetime Study of the SCWT

Seven of the 21 blood draw clinics described above provided 103 samples for the NIH study.

Researcher: Dr. Elaine Ostrander, Ostrander Canine Genomics Lab, Bethesda, MD

•2008 AKC CHF Conference

Attendee: Jana Carraway

Funding: $200 Approved by SCWTCA Endowment

•2008 Informative Family Project, Geriatric Dog Project contributing to AKC-CHF Grant 1485: Longitudinal Field Studies of Families of SCWTs Affected with PLE and/or PLN and the Foundation of a DNA Bank

Pelletizing DNA for Penn DNA Bank; biopsies; shipping of samples; summer students; genetic testing DNA collection kits; AKC report fees for Penn for registration numbers; histopathology, testing expense; freezer expense.

Researcher: Meryl P. Littman VMD DACVIM, University of Pennsylvania

Funding: $9,000. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc.; Funded by the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., $5000

$38,800

•2009 Sibling Pairs Study SNIP Chip Purchase

Technology to compare 24 pairs of affected and non-affected SCWT siblings. Includes Blood Draw Clinics (Paid 1/3 of the cost to help sponsor 21 blood draw clinics to acquire DNA samples for the CPP.) and SNIP CPP Participant Fee Sharing (Paid 1/2 of the participant registration fee for 991 SCWTs whose blood was drawn during SCWTCA sponsored clinics to produce DNA samples for future Wheaten-related research.)

Researcher: Gary Johnson DVM Ph.D., University of Missouri - Columbia

Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment; $35,200

•2009 Rabies Challenge Fund Charitable Trust

Private fund supporting longitudinal work to address the duration of immunity conveyed by rabies vaccine with the intent of extending the legally required interval for rabies boosters to 5, then 7 years.

Researcher: Dr. Ronald Schultz, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Funding: $500. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment

•2009 AKC-CHF Parent Club Health Conference

Various presenters addressing health issues applicable to most breeds.

St. Louis, MO

Attendee: Jana Carraway

Funding: $200. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment

•2012 Student Researcher Professional Development Award

This award supports vet students who make significant contributions to health-related research projects involving SCWTs by partially funding their attendance to a professional conference to present results from a project they worked on. In 2012, an award was made to Claire Wiley to support her presentation of the Genome-wide Association Study of PLN.

Grant Recipient: Claire Wiley

Funding: $560. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc. Funded by SCWTCA Endowment.

•2012 Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) of Protein-Losing Nephropathy (PLN) in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers—Genetic Testing for PLN-Associated Variant Genes

After years of research supported by the owners and breeders of hundreds of Wheatens throughout the world, Dr. Meryl Littman and Dr. Paula Henthorn at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) identified mutations associated with PLN in two genes.

Samples from the PennVet SCWT DNA Bank were used in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using 177,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of which 81,097 SNPs were informative. Control dogs (unaffected Wheatens aged 14 – 18) and affected dogs were studied, as were dogs of other breeds. PLN was found to be associated with changes in two genes responsible for encoding the proteins found in the podocyte slit diaphragm, a fundamental component of the glomerular filtration barrier in the kidney. For more information, please see the Research Abstract as well as the peer-reviewed research report published in Mammalian Genome in January 2013.

The research resulted in a DNA cheek swab test, introduced to Wheaten owners in May 2012. DNA collection kits were made available worldwide at no cost to SCWT owners and breeders to assist Drs. Littman and Henthorn in gathering 1,000 SCWT DNA samples for a prevalence study between May and September 2012. The SCWTCA, Inc., the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., and the Genetic Research Fund combined efforts to finance this project.

After the introduction of the test in 2012, SCWTCA, the Endowment, and the Genetic Research Fund Boards, issued a Statement on Genetic Testing for PLN-Associated Variant Genes endorsing testing for PLN-associated variant genes by breeders and stud dog owners as one tool in the assessment of breeding stock. Testing information and information guides can be found on the DNA testing page of The SCWT Club of America website.

In 2016, the membership of the SCWTCA voted to amend its Code of Ethics to require use of this test prior to breeding.

Researchers: Claire A. Wiley, Meryl P. Littman, Michael G. Raducha, Paula S. Henthorn, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

•2013 Tufts University Breeding & Genetics Conference:

Attendee: Deb Van De Ven

Funding: $235. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc.; Funded by SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•2013 Purchase and Maintenance of SCWT Health and Pedigree Database

After a number of years of development, the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., was excited to announce in 2018, the launch of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Health and Pedigree Database. This database set-up was originally developed by the Berner-Garde Foundation 30 years ago and is in use by several other breeds in addition to Wheatens. Starting with San Jeffries’s database of 46,000 dogs, a team of volunteer data operators added dogs resulting in a debut of nearly 60,000 Wheatens from around the world. 

In furtherance of the Endowment’s mission, we believe the detailed collection of health and pedigree information in the Database will help to identify, track, and reduce the incidence of health problems in the SCWT. Wheaten owners, breeders, and researchers can use it to assist with decisions about the care and welfare of their dogs and to make breeding decisions. We expect veterinarians and veterinary researchers working with Wheatens will find it a valuable data source.

The best way to appreciate the potential of the Database is to use it! It is accessible to all once you’ve read and accepted the policies. You can learn more about the Database at our About the Database and Database Resources pages.

Funding: $7,600

•2014 Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine SCWT Histopathology & Testing Expense

Funding: $5,000

•2015 Freezer Storage University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine

Purchase of a new freezer to store SCWT DNA samples

Trustees of the University of PA School of Veterinary Medicine

Funding: $9,142

•2016 Pilot Association Study of PLE/PLN (Protein-Losing Enteropathy/Nephropathy) in SCWTs

Nearly one hundred DNA samples, including both “affected” and “normal control” dogs, were chosen for initial analysis by the Section of Medical Genetics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. These samples were subjected to a new technology that assays thousands of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) simultaneously.

Within a single mammalian species (such as dogs or humans), there are millions of SNPs, and geneticists use them to find the locations of genes that cause various traits, including diseases. If the location can be determined, then it becomes possible (for a species that has had its genome sequence determined) to:

  • examine genes in that region as candidates for involvement in the disease process;

  • develop DNA-based genetic tests. While this sounds straight-forward in theory, it can be difficult to execute, particularly for a disease that is complex, as is PLE/PLN.

PLE/PLN does not appear to be simply inherited, and may be influenced by environmental factors, making it much more difficult to study.

We refer to our initial study as a pilot study because, due to the complexity of the disease, we cannot accurately predict how many dogs are actually needed to have a strong chance of success. In studies of complex genetic diseases in humans, tens of thousands of individuals are studied.

Researchers: Meryl P. Littman, Paula S. Henthorn, University of Pennsylvania

Funding: $9,000. Approved by SCWTCA, Inc.; Funded by the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc. and the Meryl P. Littman Wheaten Fund supported through the generosity of Dr. Littman’s clients and Wheaten friends.

•2018 AKC CHF Grant 2519: Prevalence of Bartonella spp. Infection in Dogs with Cardiac and Splenic Hemangiosarcomas within and between Geographic Locations:

Researcher(s): Edward B Breitschwerdt DVM; Matthew Breen PhD; North Carolina State University.

Funding: $2,500. Funded by the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•2019 Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) using SNP chips for Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE)

Genome Wide Association Studies to identify the chromosomal regions (and genes within these regions) that are associated with PLE or PLN and can then be studied in additional dogs for confirmation.

Researcher: Paula Henthorn PhD BS, Mariah Gentry, DVM at University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

Funding: $7,750.

•2019 Genetic Testing for PLN-Associated Variant Genes Follow Up Survey

Researchers: Paula Henthorn PhD BS, Mariah Gentry DVM, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

Funding: $5,000

•2019 Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS)

Since the introduction of the DNA test for PLN risk, owners and breeders have continued to hope for some similar testing for PLE. As noted, it is a more complex disease. WGS is an important component of this research.

WGS identifies essentially ALL of the DNA variants in an individual (there are millions of DNA variants within an individual mammal, compared to another member of the same species). The overall goal of WGS (combined with other information) is to identify all of the DNA variants in healthy and disease affected dogs, then to find which of those variants are associated with disease. This is done by analyzing the genome sequences by comparing to sequences of other dogs, examining genes known to be involved with the particular or similar diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases for PLE, and by performing GWAS (genome-wide association studies with SNP chips) to point to the chromosomal regions that need to be studied. The goal of the proposed studies, in combination, is to further improve our ability to predict the occurrence of PLN. Dr. Henthorn has submitted 10 dogs for WGS sequencing to advance to our understanding of both PLE and PLN.

This sequencing information will make a significant contribution to our PLE research. Additional sequencing would build on that information, and it is particularly important to obtain sequence from PLE and normal geriatric dogs from the U.S. population. If we are very lucky, the WGS studies will immediately identify genes for further study. More likely, as implied above, we will need to do additional GWAS (genome-wide association studies) in the future.

In particular, Dr. Henthorn will compare genome sequences from affected and healthy geriatric dogs that are 2-2 (”2s” in the SCWT vernacular) to see if we can identify DNA changes that would allow us to more accurately predict the occurrence of PLN. An added benefit of the sequencing could find a dog(s) who have a variance for both PLE and PLN.

Penn Vet is collaborating with investigators at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), who study a form of IBD in very young children that appears similar to PLE in some SCWTs. If they find that the dogs have a similar genetic basis to their disease as do children, it opens the possibility of exciting collaborative work that could be mutually beneficial to dogs and kids.

We also want to sequence dogs affected with PLN and compare their genome sequences to healthy geriatric dogs (which will include the PLN 2-2 healthy geriatric dogs).

Researcher: Paula Henthorn PhD BS, University of Pennsylvania

•2020 Ectopic Ureters

Use of laser ablation techniques on a test case to further understand and expand our knowledge of Ectopic Ureters in the SCWT.

Researcher: Daniel Langlois BS DVM DACVIM, Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Funding: $1,600

•2020 PLN Gene Testing – 2 vs 1

Testing for variant alleles associated with a risk for PLN ("DNA test") was initially developed at Penn based on Drs. Littman and Henthorn's research. That research showed that a DNA variant occurred in each of two genes, NPHS1 and KIRREL2, that are next to each other in their position on dog chromosome 1, and that the presence of these two variants on both copies of chromosome 1 indicated significantly increased risk for developing PLN (Protein-Losing Nephropathy). In all Wheatens examined in the research study, these genes always showed the same patterns...

• All dogs that were 1-1 for NPHS1 were also 1-1 for KIRREL2 (both copies each gene normal),

• All dogs that were 1-2 for NPHS1 were also 1-2 for KIRREL2 (heterozygous for both genes),

• All dogs that were 2-2 for NPHS1 were also 2-2 for KIRREL2 (both copies of each gene are variant).

In other words, the normal versions of these two genes were always inherited together, and the variant versions to these genes were always inherited together. Because of this it is not known with 100% certainly, which gene variant puts a dog at high risk for developing PLN, or whether or not they both act together (although, based on what is known about those two genes and proteins they encode, it is thought that NPHS1 is more likely).

Among the well over 4,000 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier samples that Penn has analyzed since the test was introduced in 2012, there have been three (3) Wheaten terriers with results in which both genes had different genotypes, (for example 1-1 for NPHS1 and 1-2 for KIRREL2). In these cases, Penn reports the results more specifically, and discusses the ramifications of these results with the dog’s owner.

Penn's DNA testing continues to test both genes for two reasons. It is not 100% certain which of the two gene variants is most important in the PLN disease process and running two tests for each sample increases the quality control in the testing process. The websites of some commercial labs indicate that they only test for one of the genes, usually NPHS1.

•2020 AKC CHF Grant 02800: Defining the Effect of Genotype, Breed and Age on the Risk of Developing Canine Degenerative Myelopathy and Investigating the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying that Risk

The Endowment, together with the SCWTCA and the SCWT Genetic Research Fund, is donating to the funding for this grant. Together with mixed breeds and 30 other breeds, Wheatens are susceptible to DM, a late-onset progressive neurodegenerative disease.

•2020 Genetic testing for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) and Microphthalmia

The University of Pennsylvania's PennGen testing facility has announced the availability of genetic testing for DM and Microphthalmia, a condition involving eye abnormalities and blindness. Penn's research into PLN in Wheatens resulted in genetic testing for the variant alleles associated with risk of PLN and has been offering testing to owners since 2012. The Endowment, together with the entire Wheaten community, supported the research leading to the PLN testing. Owners can now obtain all three tests through PennGen. Read the PennGen announcement PDF at the PLN Testing Recommendations page.

•2020 Dr. Paula Henthorn's June SCWT PLE/PLN Research Progress Report

1. Survey

A 91-question survey was developed and distributed (in three phases) to owners and breeders, beginning early this year. A single survey was sent for each of 3773 dogs that had been tested using the PLN-Associated Variant Genes Test (and thus, we have DNA for these dogs). We have had 883 completed responses, of 1204 surveys that have been started, and we are still accepting completed surveys (until June 14th, with extensions possible if people email Dr. Gentry and ask for the extension). We are examining information provided from the surveys, with the first goal of identifying the dogs that will be most useful for our studies and obtaining medical records for these dogs. This first step is underway, with the help of a Penn undergraduate pre-vet student intern, who will be contacting veterinary clinics to obtain medical records.

2. Sequencing dogs for studies of both PLE and PLN

The Animal Health Trust in England has sequenced two dogs, including one healthy 13-year-old SCWT. Sequencing of 10 additional dogs has been completed, and the data files transferred to our laboratory. All 12 of these dogs will be useful for the study of PLE, with some of the dogs also useful for studies that may enhance genetic testing for PLN. The analysis will go into full swing when we can get access to the computer that we need for the analysis. (All non-essential research was suspended starting March 18th, and limited access to our laboratories is now being phased in.)

3. GWAS (Genome Wide Association Study, using SNP chips)

This phase is on hold until we identify additional dogs for GWAS analysis, based on information from steps 1 and 2 above.

4. Offer additional genetics tests for use by SCWT breeders: DM (Degenerative Myelopathy)
and Microphthalmia

Two genetic diseases that have been identified in Wheaten Terriers are listed above. We have developed assays for these tests and now offer them through the PennGen laboratories. We have created two documents (one to announce the test availability, and one to explain the genetics of microphthalmia in SCWT, based on the study performed in Finland (Kaukonen et al. 2018 Cell Reports 23(9):2643-2652). To determine if this disease variant allele is present in the North American SCWT population, we tested 66 of the DNA samples derived from PLN testing. Fifteen percent (10 of 66 samples) tested as carriers for the disease-associated variant in the RPB4 gene. (Among these samples were 48 samples that were received after mid-November 2019. Five of these recent samples were carriers.) None of the 66 samples had two copies. This is a small sample size, but it does demonstrate that this disease-causing gene variant is present in the SCWT population. Genetic testing, particularly of any female that is being considered for breeding, will allow breeders to avoid affected puppies in their breeding programs.

Finances (by numbered activities above)

1. $15,500 was contributed from the SCWTCA and the SCWT Endowment ($7,750 each) to cover salary for Dr. Mariah Gentry and for a student researcher. After Penn’s share of these gifts (note that the majority of these funds come to the School of Veterinary Medicine, thus indirectly supporting this work), $12,400 was available for our work. To date, $11,000 has been spent for Dr. Gentry’s salary. Dr. Gentry will be working on the project until the end of 2020. Funds needed in excess of $12,400 for Dr. Gentry and the student intern will be supplied from previous gifts to the project.

2. $10,000 was contributed from the SCWTCA and the SCWT Endowment ($5,000 each) for ten dog genome sequences, with $8,000 directly available for this project. The fee for sequencing 10 dogs was $8,200, and less than originally quoted. Additional funds from previous donations be applied to the annual software fees for sequence and GWAS analysis software (annual fee of $3,000).

3. The estimate of the cost for this part of the research was originally estimated at $10,000, although costs will be re-examined as the scope of the necessary work becomes clearer.

4. All costs for the development of the assays, and initial screening for microphthalmia were completely covered by the PennGen laboratories, including technician and faculty salaries. [PennGen is a genetic testing facility operated through the Section of Clinical Genetics and Advanced Therapies (CGAT) at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine. It is a not-for-profit laboratory offering testing for genetic diseases, primarily in dogs and cats, and other molecular diagnostic services, such as somatic mutation screening in cancer patients. Together with CGAT’s Genetic Disease Discovery Laboratory, PennGen also engages in research to uncover the genetic basis of a wide range of diseases in animals and offers metabolic screening for inborn errors of metabolism including inherited and acquired forms of Fanconi Syndrome, and electron microscopy for ciliary dyskinesia in dogs.]

Respectfully submitted, with thanks for your ongoing support, 
Paula Henthorn, PhD Professor of Medical Genetics, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

•2021 Grant #02428: Identifying Disease-defining Autoantibodies in Canine Addison’s Disease

Here are Grant #02428 project details.

Researcher: Steven G Friedenberg DVM, PhD, University of Minnesota

Funding: $3,000.

Research Update Report PDF: August 2021

•2021 Grant #02534: Clinical Evaluation of Propranolol in Combination with Doxorubicin for the Treatment of Hemangiosarcoma

Here are Grant #02534 project details.

Funding: $3,000

•2021 Grant #02658: Characteristics of Sensory Neuronal and Muscle Pathology in Canine Degenerative Myelopathy to Identify Targets for Therapeutic Intervention

Here are Grant #02658 project details.

Funding: $3,000

NOTE: Donor dogs may be needed for the above projects (check the specific project details). If you have a Wheaten diagnosed with any of the conditions being studied, please consider adding your Wheaten to study participation. The future health of our Wheatens is in your hands! Remember to update health information in your dogs' records in the SCWT Database.

★Wheaten Webinars

Beginning in 2021, the SCWTCA began offering educational Wheaten Webinars on a variety of topics, including health issues. The first in the series, Coat Color Genetics in Wheatens was presented by longtime Wheaten breeder and noted geneticist Dr. Neil O’Sullivan. Neil joined the SCWTCA Board in January 2021 and brought the concept of a webinar series to reality in a matter of weeks. Announced with just a few days notice, nearly 80 people joined us live for the airing of this highly engaging talk with Neil. While you can find a complete list of all the Webinars on the SCWTCA website, we list the ones here that are specifically sponsored by the Endowment concerning health issues.

•02/16/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Coat Color Genetics in Wheatens

Presenter: Dr. Neil O’Sullivan, noted geneticist and longtime Wheaten breeder

•03/16/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Exploring the SCWT Database

Presenter: Anna Marzolino, Chair of the SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•04/20/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Dawn of DNA Testing

Dawning of the age of DNA testing — where to test, what does it mean, and adding the information to the SCWT Database

Presenter: Dr. Neil O’Sullivan, noted Geneticist and longtime Wheaten breeder

•05/18/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Gulpies, IBD, & Food Allergies

Presenter: Meryl P. Littman VMD DACVIM

Sponsored By: SCWTCA Endowment, Inc. $750

•06/15/2021 • Best Practices for Managing The Stud Dog — Let’s Hear It For The Boys!

Presenter: Erin E. Runcan DVM DACT, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•07/20/2021 Wheaten Webinar • CHIC, Genetic Tests, & Summertime Thoughts

Presenters: Susan Ratliffe, Beth Sorenson, Elaine Azerolo, Cyndi Stokvis, & Neil O’Sullivan

Sponsored By: SCWTCA Health Committee

•July 2021 The Endowment, Inc. Survey — The Gulpies and Digestive issues in Wheatens

The Endowment created and conducted a survey on the Gulpies and Digestive issues in Wheatens with over 1,200 responses. See the Gulpies Survey Results PDF.

•08/17/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Microphthalmia

Presenter: Gustavo Aguirre VMD PhD PhD(hc), American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists Professor of Medical Genetics and Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc.

•09/21/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Temperament & Rage Syndrome

Presenter: Karen Overall MA VMD PhD DACVB; Editor in Chief, Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research

Sponsored by: SCWTCA, Inc., SCWTCA Endowment, Inc. $350, SCWTCA Health Committee

•10/26/2021 Wheaten Webinar • Ectopic Ureters/Urogenital Disorders in Wheatens

Presenter: Julie Byron DVM MS DACVIM; Professor, Clinical Small Animal Internal Medicine, Ohio State University — College of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc. & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., SCWTCA Health Committee

•11/10/2021 Annual Health Testing Protocols updated

Annual Health Testing Protocols have been updated and approved by Dr Littman. This PDF handout can be printed and given to your vet and kept in their file. This will ensure that you get all the proper health testing completed at the time of the visit and won't have to go for subsequent visits. As you can see, Dr. Littman has recommended that ALL Wheaten Terriers have the DNA Test for the PLN Variant Gene. She has listed the companies that have made the test available to the general public.

As someone on the SCWTCA Health Committee stated, "A Urinalysis is a Wheaten's best friend." A good thing to remember!

•11/16/2021 Wheaten Webinar • PLN/Kidney Disease Update

Presenter: Meryl Littman VMD DACVIM

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc., SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., SCWTCA Health Committee

•12/3/2021 — Wheaten Health Newsletter inaugural annual issue released!

PDF of Inaugural Wheaten Health Newsletter

•02/15/2022 Wheaten Webinar • Optimum Age for Spay and Neuter

Presenter: Erin E. Runcan DVM DACT, Assistant Professor of Theriogenology & Reproductive Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•03/15/2022 Wheaten Webinar • Orthopedic Issues in Wheatens

Presenter: Darryl Millis MS DVM DACVS CCRP, Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga College of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•04/19/2022 Wheaten Webinar • The Unique Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – Head/Ear Characteristics

Presenter: Cindy Vogels

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•05/17/2022 Wheaten Webinar • C-BARQ, The Canine Behavioral Assessment & Research Questionnaire

Presenter: James Serpell PhD Emeritus Professor of Animal Welfare, School of Veterinary Medicine University of Pennsylvania

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

C-BARQ is a standardized behavioral evaluation tool. This can be a reliable, validated method for measuring behavior problems in dogs.

You can sign up as pet owners and take the questionnaire on 1-3 of your dogs, if you like. You will need this six-digit code to access the account: 758847. There is no charge or fee for this as the SCWTCA Endowment Inc. has set up an account link for us.

  1. Click on "Sign Up Today" and create a brief profile.

  2. Next, enter a dog by clicking on "Add a Dog."

  3. Then, select "Dog is participating in a study" and click "Next".

  4. Select the name of your organization: "SCWTCA Endowment Inc." and provide this six-digit code: 758847.

  5. Complete the questionnaire on your dog(s). An analysis will be sent to you.

•06/28/2022 Wheaten Webinar • Early Intestinal Disease Marker Study

Presenter: Katie Tolbert DVM, North Carolina State University School of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc, SCWTCA Endowment, Inc., and the Health Education Committee

This new SCWT study at NCSU hopes to identify dogs with PLE before there are Blood Work Changes.

•07/8/2022 SCWT Early Intestinal Disease Marker Study

Wheaten Terriers diagnosed with PLE and healthy Wheaten Terriers are needed for a study with NC State University School of Veterinary Medicine. NCSU is beginning a study it hopes will identify SCWTs with PLE before there are any clinical bloodwork changes. Participation is specific: 8-10 “normal” Wheatens and 8-10 “affected” Wheatens are needed. Testing is done free of charge at NCSU in Raleigh, NC. There are financial incentives. For more information, contact Katie Tolbert DVM.

•08/16/2022 Wheaten Webinar • Degenerative Myelopathy

Presenter: Liz Hanson, DNA Research Information Specialist, University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Genetics Lab

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•09/20/2022 Wheaten Webinar • What Makes The SCWT Unique – Presentation

Presenter: Cindy Vogels. Chair of the SCWT Breeder Education Committee, AKC Judge.

Sponsored By: SCWTCA, Inc & SCWTCA Endowment, Inc.

•2023 SCWT Early Intestinal Disease Marker Study

Wheaten Terriers diagnosed with PLE and healthy Wheaten Terriers are needed for a study with NC State University School of Veterinary Medicine. NCSU is beginning a study it hopes will identify SCWTs with PLE before there are any clinical bloodwork changes. Participation is specific: 8-10 “normal” Wheatens and 8-10 “affected” Wheatens are needed. Testing is done free of charge at NCSU in Raleigh, NC. There are financial incentives. For more information, contact Katie Tolbert DVM at mktolbe2@ncsu.edu.

Participation Information Form

•2023 Jablonski Research Program — Evaluating New Diagnostics & Treatments for PLE

Dr. Sara Jablonski is studying how to better diagnose and treat Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE) in dogs. Both local and out-of-state clients may participate, as some studies require only 1 clinical visit. Clients whose dogs are part of 1 or more of Jablonski’s studies could save up to $2,500 on clinical services.

If you’re interested in applying for a PLE study with Jablonski, email sjw@msu.edu with information about your dog that will help determine their eligibility.

Please note: Jablonski and her collaborators are looking for dogs who have not seen prior treatment and, most importantly, have not been treated with steroids.

•09/18/2023 Wheaten Webinar • Renal Dysplasia and Interpreting Lab Values in Your Dog’s Bloodwork

Dr. Shelly Vaden, DVM, PhD, DACVIM. She is Professor Internal Medicine (Nephrology and Urology), Chief of Staff, Small Animal at North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. She has been involved with our breed for many years. Bring your questions or submit them to me ahead of time to present to her before the Webinar. Her specialty is Urology. Read more about Dr. Vaden here: https://cvm.ncsu.edu/people/slvaden/.

Presenter: Dr Shelly Vaden, DVM, PhD, DACVIM at NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored by: SCWTCA Endowment Inc.

Time: Sep 19, 2023 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

This was great a webinar. Dr. Vaden discussed lab values on dogs with Renal Disease, RD, PLE, PLN and those liver values that we have all been hearing about lately. She discussed the "chicken allergy" theory along with other food allergies, the Fecal API test on PLE dogs, Ectopic Ureters, the SDMA test and creatinine levels and the UPC ratio and systolic blood pressure (this was all really interesting), and the IRIS Treatment Recommendations for CKD, and possible non-genetic causes of PLN... what else am I missing?

If you didn't get a chance to watch the live Wheaten Webinar - Interpreting Lab Values, RD Update Tuesday night with Dr Shelly Vaden, DVM, you can watch it at your convenience! The Webinar is now available on the SCWTCA website. If you own a Wheaten, get the knowledge from the expert! Watch it at https://scwtca.org/education/webinars/.

*****Thank you to donors of the SCWTCA Endowment as your donations made this Webinar possible!*****

•12/12/2023 Wheaten Webinar • Phase 2 Study of PLE in SCWTs

Katie Tolbert DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM did a short Webinar on the Phase 2 study of Protein-Losing Enteropathy in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. This is a follow up to the informative Webinar she did last year on the beginning study of 12 healthy Wheatens. The next phase is trying to identify symptoms and test results that can identify PLE in the Wheaten. Please join us for a holiday Webinar before the season gets any busier.

Dr. Tolbert is well qualified to deal with this topic. She has completed her small animal internal medicine residency and PhD in comprehensive Biomedical Sciences at North Carolina State University. She is a clinical associate professor in the GI lab at Texas A&M. She also holds a position as a Clinical Veterinary Instructor at North Carolina State University and is pursuing an alternate-track residency in small animal nutrition at the University of Tennessee. Her clinical interests and research program are focused on the treatment of acute and chronic gastrointestinal diseases in dogs and cats. 

Presenter: Katie Tolbert DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM at NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine

Sponsored by: SCWTCA Endowment Inc.

Time: Dec. 12, 2023 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

If you didn't get a chance to see the live Wheaten Webinar - Phase 2 Study of Protein-Losing Enteropathy in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers with Dr Katie Tolbert, DVM, you can watch it at your convenience! The Webinar is now available on the SCWTCA website. If you own a Wheaten, get the knowledge from the expert! Watch it at https://scwtca.org/education/webinars/.

•2/13/2024 Wheaten Webinar • Addison’s Disease

Dr Meryl Littman did a Webinar on Addison’s Disease. Watch this important Webinar on Addison’s Disease, dubbed ”the Great Pretender” because it mimics symptoms of many other conditions. Get the latest updates on detailed diagnosing and treatment steps from an expert.

Presenter: Meryl Littman VMD DACVIM

Sponsored by: SCWTCA Health Committee, SCWTCA Endowment Inc.

Time: Feb. 13, 2024 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

If you didn't get a chance to watch the live Wheaten Webinar - Addison’s Disease Tuesday night with Dr Meryl Littman, DVM, you can watch it at your convenience! The Webinar is now available on the SCWTCA website. If you own a Wheaten, get the knowledge from the expert! Watch it at https://scwtca.org/education/webinars/.

★•March 2024 • Does Chronic Kidney Disease cause Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Dogs?

Researcher: Katie Tolbert, DVM, PHD, DACVIM-SAIM Clinical Associate Professor, Texas A&M University Gastrointestinal Laboratory

Funding: The Endowment has fully funded this study in the amount of $20,000.00. This research grant has the seal of approval from the SCWTCA Health Committee and SCWTCA Board of Directors.

 1   Abstract: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with an increased risk of upper gastrointestinal (GI)
 2   bleeding in humans, and hospitalized patients with CKD and GI bleeding are at a three times greater risk for
 3   in-hospital mortality. Limited research has explored whether these same risks exist in the veterinary
 4   population, and the prevalence of GI bleeding in dogs with CKD is unknown. Despite this knowledge gap, it
 5   is common for these patients to receive gastroprotectants to treat suspected GI bleeds, which not only
 6   increases medication burden for owners but also may be detrimental to dogs with CKD. Accordingly, the
 7   proposed study would be the first to evaluate GI bleeding in dogs with CKD compared to age-matched
 8   healthy dogs using video capsule endoscopy (VCE). If you believe you have a dog that can participate in this study, please email Dr. Katie Tolbert directly at ktolbert@cvm.tamu.edu.