Canine Multifocal Retinopathy 2

Typically, the first ocular fundus changes in CMR2 can be diagnosed by the age of four months. In many cases, the lesions may appear to heal or even go away, sometimes leaving no evidence or only a wrinkle at the site of the healed lesion. In almost all cases, lesions from CMR2 do not progress significantly over time, so there is generally no reduction in eyesight though more serious cases could exhibit vision impairment. Very seldom is the patient completely blinded. The lesions noted in CMR2 in Coton de Tulears tend to be more severe and persist longer than the lesions noted in breeds affected by the other CMR.

Monitor fundus changes for evidence of healing and monitor patient for any signs of visual impairment.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding dogs. Regardless of test results it is important that your dog is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the puppies if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most kennel club websites.

This disease is autosomal recessive meaning that two copies of the mutation are needed for disease signs to develop. A carrier dog with one copy of the CMR2 mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the CMR2 mutation. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the CMR2 mutation. A dog with two copies of the CMR2 mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog. The resulting puppies will be all carriers with one copy of the CMR2 mutation. Puppies in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Please note: It is possible that disease signs similar to the ones caused by the CMR2 mutation could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.