The Clumber Spaniel Health Foundation manages the CSCA DNA Bank. This important resource enables researchers to study DNA from Clumbers that are affected with various diseases and conditions, such as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA), and Hemangiosarcoma, a cancer of the blood vessels that often presents as tumors of the spleen in Clumbers. These research projects may lead to improved diagnostics, more individualized therapies, and perhaps even DNA tests.
To make it easier and more cost effective for owners to participate in banking DNA from their Clumbers, the Foundation has purchased salivary swab kits. The saliva kits enable owners to collect their own dogs? DNA at home. The Foundation is also paying for mailing costs in both directions (we will send prepaid mailers out with the saliva swabs).
The same $15 per dog banking fee still applies. This covers DNA extraction cost and storage at Van Andel Research Institute. Owners will not have to make a vet appointment or have blood drawn to submit DNA, which should provide a real cost savings.
To order kits, please send a check for $15 per dog (made out to VARI), to Roe Froman, at:
Roe Froman, DVM
940 Covell NW
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504
Thank you for your participation!