Introduction Reference Forms Test Form Questionnaire Form
DNA Informed Consent OFA Link
Checklist Veterinary Instructions
 
Welcome to the Irish Water Spaniel Thyroid Study Website.
This Study is an opportunity for you and your IWS to take part in quantifying the effectiveness of the thyroid gland in the IWS. Until now, we’ve used the “normals” derived from the larger canine population, but as different breeds and groups of breeds can have different normal ranges, it’s useful to know the breed-specific normal range. That’s the Goal of this Study – to determine the normal range of thyroid function for IWSs. This site will clarify how you can participate.
Why is this important?
It's important because the thyroid gland regulates metabolism of all body cellular functions, so reduced thyroid function can adversely affect many different areas of health and temperament. (Click here for a link to a chart of the clinical signs of Hypothyroidism.)
Until now, we've used the “normals” derived from the larger canine population, but as different breeds and groups of breeds can have different normal ranges, it's useful to know the breed-specific normal range. That's the Goal of this Study – to determine the normal range of thyroid function for IWSs.
When should I have my IWS's thyroid tested for this Study?
Wait at least 45 days after any vaccinations.
Wait until after puberty, once your IWS has reached sexual maturity.
For dogs, wait until they're at least 10 months old.
For bitches, wait at least 12 weeks after the start of their first or any heat season.
Draw blood 4-6 hours AFTER taking any thyroid medication if your IWS is taking thyroid supplements.
How can I participate?
There are four ways to take part in the Study:
OPTION #1 Submit Existing Complete Thyroid panels that your vet has already done on your IWS.
This entails mailing copies of prior results to Hemopet along with the completed Questionnaire.
OPTION #2 Submit Blood and paperwork to Hemopet for a new thyroid panel including TgAA/Thyroglobin Auto-Antibody.
  This involves a visit to your vet to draw, prepare and ship blood. Remember to bring the Veterinary Instructions with you for this and the following options.
  Enclose Completed: Questionnaire and Test Request Form along with $55 $35 check to Hemopet.
OPTION #3 Submit Blood and paperwork to Hemopet for a new thyroid panel, TgAA + DNA analysis
  This is option #2 + additional blood drawn that will be examined for possible IWS DNA thyroid marker(s).
  Enclose Completed:Questionnaire, Test Request Form + DNA Informed Consent and $55 $35 to Hemopet.
OPTION #4 Submit Blood and paperwork to Hemopet for a new thyroid panel, TgAA, DNA analysis + OFA thyroid analysis (another panel) and submittal to OFA Thyroid Registry – the BEST option for the breed!
  This is option #3 + additional blood and tests done to satisfy OFA’s Thyroid Registry requirements. Option #4 does the most for the breed as it not only helps us learn more about thyroid function in IWS, but it also adds information to OFA’s database for the breed.
  Enclose Completed: Questionnaire, Test Request Form + DNA Informed Consent and $85 $65 check to Hemopet. Also you'll need to download and complete OFA's Application for Thyroid Database and make a $15 check to OFA.
## IWS owners living outside of the United States who want to submit samples for this Study also need to enclose an EXPLANATORY LETTER for US Customs along with all blood and/or serum samples.
Because of the four ways to participate, all the paperwork, the drawing and shipping different forms of blood, this may seem a bit confusing. The Checklist/Option Matrix outlines everything at a glance. Give yourself plenty of time. Print out the forms and do your best to complete them BEFORE you visit your vet. Note that the OFA application requires registration numbers and registered names.
You’ll notice some strike-throughs in the above. The new prices reflect a subsidby from the IWSCA Breeders Committee to hopefully encourage more people to participate at the new, reduced rate.
 
Feel free to submit copies of photos or other information that helps explain any issues relating to your dog’s health. If you have any questions, contact Florence Blecher at browndogz@sbcglobal.net and she’ll do her best to help you sort things out. Thanks in advance for taking the time and making the effort to do this for our dogs!