I think the biggest debt is to the researchers who kept working on this issue and trying to understand it better even as some clubs apparently decided not to fund them because they don't like the message :sl*p: (one club breeder has recently posted to this effect on a public discussion list. Imagine trying to block funding to the people who have done so much to help identify and relieve this pain and suffering, and worked so hard to keep giving breeders some options other than to let the breed collapse).
It is really, really important that puppy buyers and pet owners join together and say 'enough'.
The strongest way to do this is to absolutely refuse to buy puppies from anyone who is not cardiologist testing and has not MRId any of their breeding dogs. The next strongest is to write the clubs and the national clubs, the Kennel CLub and AKC and IKC and other national groups, expressing your concern at the lack of any formal guidelines on or requirements for health testing for this breed, and to make health -- as expressed in cardiologist results and MRI scans -- part of determining 'conformation' awards for show dogs.
You can also financially support research -- even the smallest donation helps -- for example by contributing towards Margaret's ongoing scheme, or buying Sandy's book.
Donations towards Syringomyelia DNA Research can be made via Paypal. Entering the following email address at the PayPal site will bring up the 'SM DNA Fund' account:
[email protected]. Donations can be made in several currencies using a credit card or PayPal funds.
If you have a cavalier that has been scanned, results can go to Sarah Blott. If it is over 5 and has a pedigree, a DNA donation is VERY VALUABLE for research -- email Penny at the above email address.
For a CHRISTMAS BOOK FOR KIDS that helps the DNA research:
http://www.sandjmilesbooks.com/iWeb/S and J Miles Books/Audrey's Tale.html
For a whole list of things YOU can do -- who to write, what to say, how to help fund research, see Carol's comprehensive information here:
http://www.cavaliercampaign.com/how-you-can-help.htm
I also strongly support any effort to get lower cost scanning schemes in place for breeders.