June 13, 2007
For Immediate Release
Canine Companions Veterinary Hospital Offers B.A.E.R. Test for Congenital Deafness
Bloomington, IN – Canine Companions Veterinary Hospital is proud to announce it is one of the few locations in the Midwest offering B.A.E.R. testing for congenital deafness in dogs.

Congenital deafness (full or partial hearing loss) has been documented in 80 breeds, with the list continuing to grow. Breeds with white pigmentation are particularly at risk.

The B.A.E.R. (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test detects electrical activity in the dog’s ear and records it as a series of peaks and waves. The response is collected with a special computer through extremely small electrodes placed under the skin of the scalp.

“Dogs rarely feel any pain from the test,” notes Dr. Joanna Jones, Canine Companions veterinarian. “We hardly ever see the need for sedation and the test is complete in about fifteen minutes. It’s a very simple way to test for a very serious problem.”

Dogs’ human companions are encouraged to sit with them while the test is conducted. Dr. Jones provides printed results for each test as well as counseling on steps to take if any hearing impairment is detected.

“We get all test results immediately and are allowed to help keep the puppies calm during testing, plus the price is less than half of the University testing we have done in the past,” say Christi and Ben Weger and Jeannene Bogue of Firefly Kennels. “We can’t ask for more than that!”

Additional information on B.A.E.R. testing, including how to make an appointment, is available on the Canine Companions website in the Veterinary Services section.

Pictured above: Dr. Joanna Jones conducts a B.A.E.R. test

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