UP Faculty of Veterinary Science’s new test for deafness in dogs

Abstract

The University of Pretoria’s Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital (OVAH) in the Faculty of Veterinary Science has invested in the latest device to test deafness in dogs and is currently testing 20–30 dogs per month, most of which are puppies. “It’s important for dog breeders and people getting a puppy to make sure that there is no congenital deafness in the line, particularly in breeds that are more susceptible to it,” says OVAH’s Dr Paolo Pazzi. “Other reasons for testing include owners who are concerned that the dog they have adopted is deaf, or if their elderly dog has become deaf.”