Postmortem Examination Recommendations for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – PLE, PLN, Addison’s Disease, IBD and RD

For many dogs, the only definitive diagnosis of PLE, PLN, Addison’s, IBD and RD can be made by a postmortem examination. Breeders and owners who suspect a dog has been affected by one of these diseases…or breeders who are concerned about the presence of these diseases in their breeding program…may wish to have a necropsy performed.

Recommended Protocol

The formalin sample will be sent to the vet’s lab for analysis at the breeder/owners expense. Note: It might be wise for the vet to take two samples and keep one in case the sample is damaged or lost.

• Histopathologic examination:
  • Kidney or wedge of kidney in formalin stored at room temperature
  • Ring of small intestine in formalin stored at room temperature
  • Any tissue that appears abnormal in formalin stored at room temperature
• Medical History: Because many veterinarian offices destroy the files of deceased dogs, it is recommended that the breeder obtain copies of the dog’s medical file for their home files.
• DNA Sample: If the breeder would like to store DNA on their dog for future use (e.g., future testing, support of future research) they should do the following:
  • One kidney or spleen saved in a Ziploc bag and frozen in the breeder, owner or veterinarian’s freezer.
  • Other ways of collecting DNA could be skin or any piece of the dog’s body. If the owner has a food saver, they can freeze the body part first and then put it in the food saver.

It would be a good idea to have a copy of the Necropsy Protocol on file with the dog’s vet. We understand how difficult it is to make these arrangements on your loved one.  If we can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the health committee