Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) is it genetic?

Maineiac · 03-05-2009, 04:09 PM

My 9 mo. old lab was just diagnosed with Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). The vet said it was an inherited trait, as does most (but not all) of the reasonable research I've been able to find. The breeder has denied that this is inherited and thus the guarantee is not valid. He, infact, suggested that the problem was because I "over exerted" the dog. When I looked over exertion was not a cause of this the only non-genetic cause I found that seemed to have any credibility was trauma to the joint. He also recommended that I rest him for 6-8 weeks. Anyone had success with this?

I'm curious to see of any other dog owners have had the unfortunate experience of having a dog with this problem, what was your breeder's response?

Also any dog breeders out there what would your response to a customer with this complaint? Do I have any ground to stand on when I ask him to honor his guarantee? Thanks in advance.
~ Ross

Hunt'nFish · 03-05-2009, 04:50 PM

Condrosis or condritis??
http://labradornet.com/ocd.html

Sorry to hear this. Hope all turns out ok.
Hunt'nFish

Hunt'nFish · 03-05-2009, 04:54 PM

Here is a good read.
http://www.lab-retriever.net/board/o...08840.html?amp;

Hawaiian Time · 03-05-2009, 05:48 PM

Where is the problem area at? Shoulder, Elbow, ankle? What does your written guarantee say. Standard usually is Hip/Eyes/elbows for 26 months. Does your guarantee say full refund if you return pup, 1/2 refund if you keep the dog, or replacement pup of equal breeding? I would guess to say that the guarantee says hip/elbow displasia, judged only by OFA which is different from OCD which can be caused by trauma to the joint. If OCD not covered in your written guarantee than I think legally it's not looking good for you. That being said, a breeder may decide to to offer you a replacement pup of equal breeding. But if with rest, the problem goes away than I would say it's more of an injury that may have occurred during excercise. I suspect from your post that you feel this should be covered under the hip/elbow displasia guarantee. I think that the studies do not point to genetics as the only cause of this condition so unless it is in your guarantee, I don't think the breeder will be responsible. HT

Maineiac · 03-05-2009, 07:46 PM

The problem is in his shoulder which is part of the guarantee. The guarantee is for 24 mo. various body parts and temperament. I have to return the pup, and in return I will be furnished with a pup of equal breeding. I've heard of similar difficulties and other difficulties associated with this breeder, he is a hard person to deal with to say the least. I appreciate the point of view of a breeder like yourself.

In my mind for the amount of $ he cost and the promises the breeder made if there is any question that genetics could cause or contribute to this disease than the breeder should share in the responsibility for remedying it. It is obviously a difficult and fairly fresh situation for me to deal with, and I guess this is part of my healing process. Maybe I'll come to my senses here shortly...anyone want to buy a '78 F-250? This may be an expensive ordeal.

Hawaiian Time · 03-05-2009, 08:02 PM

That is a awesome guarantee if he honors other body parts but it seems that you need to prove that it was genetically caused which may be a difficult deal especially with the OCD. I've never seen a guarantee that covers anything other than hip/elbows, eyes, CNM and EIC. I know that they guarantee a healthy puppy going home and then the Hip/Eye, Elbows guarantee to cover you down the road but haven't seen one that is that all catching. But irregardless of how great the written guarantee is, it is only as good as the breeder makes it. I would probably seek the advice of another specialist just to be sure what the diagnosis is. Good luck either way as I know you have high hopes for your dog. HT

danger · 03-05-2009, 08:47 PM

Who is the breeder? PM if you want, but I can probably guess (hard to deal with...you live in Salem....)

Dan

Maineiac · 03-05-2009, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by danger

Who is the breeder? PM if you want, but I can probably guess (hard to deal with...you live in Salem....)

Dan

PM sent

fishinpox · 03-06-2009, 06:43 AM

I have that in my knee. It's not a lot of fun. Every couple years I have to go in and get a piece or two removed that has broken off. But when it comes to how it affects animals I really have no clue.