EYE DISEASES

Eye diseases are common in Siberians. The three most frequently diagnosed eye defects are Cataracts, Progressive Retinal Atrophy , and Comeal Dystrophy. Research has yet to produce information verifying the mode of genetic inheritance for each, and in some cases they may be environmentally influenced. However, they are still of great concern to reputable breeders. Many backyard breeders are unaware that their dogs are affected because there are no apparent sign that the diseases are present. They usually have to be diagnosed by a Canine Ophthalmologist.

CORNEAL DYSTROPHY:

This condition affects the cornea of the eye. A cloudy ring will develop around the center of the eye. It usually shows up between 7 months and 3 years of age.

HEREDITARY CATARACTS:

Cataracts are the most common eye problem for the breed The lens of the eye becomes Cloudy and it will usually show up between nine months and two years of age. In some cases, if serious, cataracts can be progressive and ultimately cause blindness, dilation of the pupil, loss of visual cells, and other retinal abnormalities. It is passed along through autosomal recessive modes of inheritance.

PROGRESSIVE RETINAL ATROPHY (PRA)

Progressive retinal atrophy is characterized by deterioration of the retina. It can cause blindness, dilation of the pupil, loss of visual cells. And other retinal abnormalities. It is passed along through autosomal recessive modes of inheritance.

HIPS: The purchaser agrees to have said dog’s hips x-rayed at 2 years of age and receive a certification from the orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Inc. (OFA). A copy of the certification should be provided to the seller . The purchaser reserves the right to require a second opinion.

FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES:

HIP DYSPLASIA

The term hip dysplasia is common in may medium to large breed dogs. Basically, the ball of the hip does not fit properly into the socket . Early detection can occur between 4-9 months of age if noticeably irregular gait begins to occur. The OFA will rate x-rays obtained by a veterinarian on a scale ranging   from Excellent to Dysplastic. Only dogs that have received a rating of Excellent or good should be used for breeding . Environmental factors, such as injury and a lack of proper nutrition can affect this defect. The incidence rate in Siberians is relatively low comparatively, especially for those dogs descending from lines where hip screenings   have been performed over generations. Surgeries are available for affected dogs, but with proper care, he may lead a complete and full life.

OTHER: Said dog is guaranteed for 60 months as outlined above for any life threatening defect. Diagnosis of such defect must be obtained by 59 months of age, and life expectancy must be less than 5 years. Purchaser had been advised that health problems may arise that would not specifically covered under this health guarantee. It is expected that the purchaser advises that seller of any suspected health problems and provide veterinary documentation to the seller

Health Guarantee: The seller guarantees that said dog is in good health unless otherwise noted below. There should be no attempt to change the food for a period of at least one week. Any changes to diet should be done so gradually. This dog is the product of a breeding program in which reasonable care has been taken to avoid inheritable defects such as hip dysplasia and eye disease (see below). If said dog is a puppy, the seller will ensure that vaccinations are current and that the puppy will have been vet-checked. Cochranton Vet Hospital.     The purchaser is urged to schedule a veterinary visit within the first 3 days of purchase in order to verify that the puppy is in good overall general health and to establish a record with a veterinarian who is accepting new patients.

A. Hereditary Defects: If hip dysplasia, blindness from eye disease, or any other inherited condition which is life-threatening should develop, the dog will be replaced with one of similar *quality (pet) at the discretion of the seller as one becomes available. Exams for hip dysplasia must be completed by 26 months of age at the expense of the purchaser. Exams for eye defects or any other suspected problems should be completed by 24 months, and yearly thereafter at the expense of the purchaser. If replacement is warranted, the purchaser has the option of keeping said dog and will be entitled to a replacement at whatever future point the purchaser feels ready to accommodate another dog, providing one is available at that time. In other words, the replacement can serve as a companion to the existing affected dog, or the purchaser can wait until the affected dog passes away before requesting the replacement. All veterinary expenses related to the treatment of any health problems will be the responsibility of the purchaser. Any related transportation expenses for the replacement will be the responsibility of the purchaser. The guarantee period will span 60 months. The guarantee will be null and void if said dog has not been spayed/neutered by 6-8 months of age. ("quality - does not refer to coat color, eye color, or gender)

B. Eyes: The purchaser agrees to have said dog examined by a canine
ophthalmologist (ACVO) between one and two years of age. A copy of
the certification will be provided to the seller whether results are 'clear' or
'affected'. The seller reserves the right to require a second opinion from
another certified ophthalmologist The purchaser has been advised that
not every eye defect results in blindness. It is kindly requested that yearly
eye exams follow until said dog reaches 5 years of age in order to help us
evaluate our breeding program.                                                   _    --_:_.„

For Informational Purposes:

  even if they are not covered under the guarantee outline in an effort to assist us in continually evaluating the breeding program. The following is information on other common defects associated with the breed. Only those that are life-
threatening and/or outlined above are covered by this guarantee.

**The term 'guarantee' is not meant to imply that this dog will NEVER develop an illness. There is no line of dogs completely free of hereditary defects. Most defects are not so serious that it drastically interferes with a dog's quality of life, and with proper nutrition and veterinary care, they can live fulfilling lives. Reasonable effort has been taken to ensure that such disorders are avoided; however, the buyer has been advised that it is still entirely possible that such problems can occur in any dog. Our guarantee is designed to account for the most serious and most common hereditary defects. The following, while not all-inclusive, are some of the more common hereditary problems that may be encountered in Siberians. Purchasers are asked to be aware of them and monitor their pets in the event that one should develop.

1.   Epilepsy: Seizure disorders are on the rise in Siberians. In some cases, they can be influenced by environmental factors such as a severe allergic reaction, viral infection, or trauma. The mode of inheritance is not yet dear. A couple of isolated seizures, though not pleasant, may not be enough to warrant medication, depending on the severity. However, medical treatment should be sought for a dog experiencing frequent attacks. Normally, a dog can live a relatively normal life with proper medication.

2.    Zinc Deficiency: Siberians have a tendency to be zinc-deficient that may cause skin problems, in which case supplements may be in order.

3.    Entropton: An extra fold or roll on the eyelid.

4.   Hemophilia: a blood clotting problem

5.   Glaucoma: pressure behind the eye

6.   Abnormal Liver Functioning

7.   Hypothyroidism: A low level of thyroid functioning is becoming an increasingly common problem in the breed. The parent dub has recommended that breeders perform thyroid screenings before breeding. Medication administered on a regular schedule will offset the affects of this disorder. The hereditary type of thyroid problem is called Lymphocytic Thyroiditis. In this case, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

8.    Lens luxation: the lens of the eye has an improper placement.

9.   Cartilage and Joint problems

10. Pannus: cornea) problem

11. Persistent papillary membrane: problem occurs during fetal development - the iris does not come together properly

12. Retinal dysplasia: malformed retina.

13. Vrtiligo: pigmentation lacking in the skin

14. Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome: rare disorder where tissues break down resulting in death

15. von Willebrand's disease: blood disorder

Health Concerns Note (if any):

IL       Residence: Said dog will reside with the purchaser. All related expenses pertaining to care, maintenance, and transportation will be the responsibility of the purchaser.

A. Care: The purchaser agrees to take good care of said dog. The purchaser will provide adequate nutrition, exercise, shelter, and medical care in an effort to ensure the physical and psychological well being of the dog. This dog will be....

•   A house dog and treated like a true family companion.

•   Never tied outside.

•   Kept on a leash and never misted off lead (agility courses indoors only).

•   Maintained in an adequately enclosed area, or on leash, and under no circumstances allowed to roam free.

•   Given proper veterinary care including vaccinations, parasite prevention, and any other care required. Heartworm/parasite preventative is strongly recommended.

•   Provided with a nutritious diet. Seller recommends National or Eukanuba/lams brand dog foods. Nutritional supplements are recommended for show prospects.

•   Provided with proper socialization. Handling or Obedience classes are strongly recommended in an effort to ensure that the dog will be comfortable hi new or different situations.

•   Properly exercised. Walks, jogging, puppy play-groups, and other opportunities will be provided for the dog to release energy, remain fit, and trim, and at an appropriate weight.

•   Properly groomed in an attempt to maintain the integrity of the breed. Special precautions should be taken to avoid excessive coat stains and discoloration due to over-exposure to the sun. Cholesterol or other coat conditioners are recommended in order to maintain softness and manageability.

•    *The purchaser will update the seller on the dog's well being at least 2 times per year, preferably with pictures.

B. Temperament: The behavior and ultimate management of the disposition of said dog is the responsibility of the purchaser. The seller is not responsible for any aggressive acts, or any other problems, associated with said dog. If the purchaser at any time feels that there is a temperament issue with said dog, he/she should be returned to the seller. Replacements may be given at the discretion of the seller if the temperament issue is not thought to be due to environmental conditions or incidents. The seller is not responsible for any lawsuits or criminal charges occurring after the sale or placement of said dog, nor anyone else charged with his/her care. The purchaser is advised that Siberians can have a tendency to be dominant, predatory, shy, possessive, and high-maintenance. The purchaser must take appropriate training measures to establish dominance and ensure that the dog is taught proper manners with respect to 'sharing' of possessions and food, socialization, and leash-work. The purchaser must give the dog adequate time and attention, and monitor the dog's disposition and behavior closely.

Temperament Concerns Note (if any):

QL     Breeding: Said dog is being sold as a pet. He/She should not be used for breeding. The dog must be spayed/neutered by 6-8 months of age by a veterinarian. The health guarantee does not apply to intact pets. A. Care: Said dog is being sold with limited AKC registration privileges. Offspring would not be eligible for registration. When satisfactory proof that the spay/neuter procedure has been performed, the AKC registration papers will be forwarded to the purchaser within 5 calendar months.

IV.      Changes: Any mutually agreed upon changes to the contract must be done so in writing.

A. Return: If at any time the purchaser should decide to dispose of his/her interest in said dog for any reason, the purchaser must first offer the return of said dog to the seller without compensation. This notification must be via registered mail. Should the purchaser wish to give said dog to friend or family, the seller must be directly involved in the transfer. Said dog should never be surrendered to any animal shelter or humane society.

V.       Enforcement: If any suit or action shall be instituted to enforce or interpret this agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover from the losing party, in addition to statutory costs, such sums as all courts may adjudge as reasonable for the prevailing party's attorney fees in such suits, actions, or an appeal thereof.

Signature of the Seller:

Signature of the Purchasers):

Date:                                                                         Check # and Amount:

Additional Comments: