Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC)

EIC is a newly characterized syndrome affecting Labrador retrievers, especially dogs that are used for hunting and field trials. Five to fifteen minutes of strenuous exercise causes a dog to suffer from this condition and develops a ‘wobbly’ gait, which soon progresses to non-painful, flaccid paraparesis and a loss of control of the rear limbs. The episode may progress to all four limbs. Collapse episodes usually last for 5–10 min, and after 30 min there is often complete recovery, but episodes are occasionally fatal. The rectal temperature of dogs during an episode typically reaches 41.7 C (from a resting temperature of 39 C). Episodes occur more commonly in temperamental animals that are more excited under stress. However mild and moderate exercise (walking, swimming) are usually well tolerated and do not result in collapse.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: DNM1 gene

Genetic test: The method used for testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. Testing can be done at any age.