About BHF

Healthy, happy, and long-lived Bouviers des Flandres

The mission of the Bouvier Health Foundation (BHF) is to advance and promote knowledge of canine health issues, especially those with a genetic basis, that occur with varying frequencies in the Bouvier des Flandres breed. With knowledge comes a better understanding of breeding and veterinary approaches to reduce the incidence and consequences of diseases that affect the wellbeing of Bouviers. The BHF is charged with raising the funds necessary for the research and education necessary to realize this mission. In theĀ  years since it was established, in August, 2000, the BHF has made important strides toward its mission.

BHF funded a survey to assess the state of health of the breed. The results were released in August 2005, and were presented during a seminar held at the 2005 ABdFC national specialty in Minnesota.

The BHF, with the support of dedicated breeders, has coordinated collection of DNA samples sufficient for including Bouviers in a research study, now underway at the University of Missouri, to identify a genetic marker for Glaucoma. This study is jointly supported by funding from the BHF, Basset Hound Club of America and Welsh Terrier Club of America and matching funds by the Canine Health Foundation. A related research project, this one at the University of Wisconsin to examine the correlation between anatomy of the eye and glaucoma, has been funded by BHF. The BHF is reviewing other research projects for possible funding through the Canine Health Foundation.

In recognition of the capability of the Bouvier des Flandres to enjoy a full life span, the Silver Beards Program was initiated to celebrate Bouvier Senior Citizens. These Silver Beards represent a very precious selection from the Bouvier gene pool that has allowed them to enjoy a long life.

To provide a DNA bank that will encourage researchers to include Bouviers in future research projects on the genetic basis of disease, the BHF is encouraging owners of all Bouviers, both young and old, to participate in the CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) DNA Repository.

The Bouvier Health Foundation needs your support to continue the work of ensuring the healthiest, happiest, long-lived Bouviers possible. As part of the American Bouvier des Flandres Club, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, donations are fully tax-deductible.

Latest News

Canine Health Information Center

Canine Health Information Center
www.caninehealthinfo.org
Provides a source of health information for owners, breeders, and scientists that will assist in breeding healthy dogs. Bouviers were enrolled in CHIC in 2007
CHIC works with parent clubs to identify health screening protocols appropriate for individual breeds.
CHIC operates an informed consent database. All information regarding test results remains confidential unless the owner specifically authorizes release of the information into the public domain

Club National Specialty Schedule

American Bouvier des Flandres Club National Specialty. Check for updates on the Specialty Schedule for health testing details at: www.Bouvier.org

Banking to Benefit the Bouvier

The CHIC DNA Repository collects and stores samples of canine DNA, together with corresponding genealogical and phenotypic information, to facilitate future research and testing for reducing the incidence of inherited disease in dogs.