SRMA – Steroid Responsive Meningitis – Arteritis

This is a condition that primarily involves a dog’s central nervous system. The central nervous system consists of brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering layer of the central nervous system. The condition affects the arteries in many body system tissues as well.

Little is known about why some dogs get SRMA and others do not, whether it is a hereditary condition or whether it is caused by environmental factors or a mixture of both.

However, in recent years, cases of SRMA has appeared in a handful of Stabyhoun, and while inheritance of this condition cannot be ruled out, it is recommended that breeders do not breed from a bitch or a dog that has previously had this condition. In addition, we are keen to track all occurrences in case this does in fact have a genetic marker.

Symptoms

The problem usually develops in pups and young adults up to 2 – 3 years of age.

Common symptoms can include any (but not always all) of the following symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Stiff neck
  • Hyper sensitivity to touch
  • Reduced mobility due to stiffness
  • Lack of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • High Temperature
  • Trembling and Muscle Spasms

Symptoms may also vary in how acute they are.

Treatments

The diagnosis of this condition can be a challenge to any vet, this is largely due to the fact that many vets have never come across SRMA.

This prognosis for this condition is good providing early treatment with steroids is undertaken. So it is vitally important that if you suspect that your Stabij has this please mention this condition to the vet.

Note: The UK Stabyhoun Association promotes full transparency and is keen to openly share all knowledge and data regarding the health of the breed. Please make us aware of any conditions your dog may have suffered from, so we can add it to their central record and take it into consideration when potentially breeding from their relatives.