This research is being done collaboratively with Dr. Mark Licht, Dr. Kathy Harper, and Dr. Shili Lin. Our neurological consultant is Dr. Cheryl Chrisman from the Department of Neurological Services at the University of Florida Veterinary Teaching College. The overall goal of this research is to understand the genetic and non-genetic causes of seizures in dogs. There are about 25-30 breeds of dogs that are affected by epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy refers to repeated seizures that are not the result of some other disorder, such as a brain tumor, metabolic disease, infectious disease that affect the central nervous system, head trauma, etc.
Idiopathic epilepsy is presumed to be inherited.
We are trying to determine the mode of inheritance for idiopathic epilepsy. That is, we are trying to determine whether idiopathic epilepsy is a simple recessive disorder, a simple dominant disorder, or a more complex genetic disorder. They also are asked for any information they may have about their Poodle's relatives who have seizures. It also requests permission to contact the veterinarians who have examined the Poodle. After completion of the Life History Questionnaire, participants are interviewed by telephone.