Airedale Terrier
Mandated by Klub für Terrier e.V.
Spongiform Leucoencephalomyelopathy · Shaking Puppy Syndrome · Shakey Puppy Syndrome · Spongiforme Leukoenzephalomyelopathie · SLEM-Border Terrier · SPS · Shaking Puppy Syndrome (SPS)
Spongiform leukoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM), also known as Shaking Puppy Syndrome (SPS), is an inherited disease of the central nervous system. It causes the protective myelin sheath, or white matter, in the brain and spinal cord to break down and develop a sponge-like texture. This degeneration severely disrupts the transmission of nerve signals throughout the dog's body.
Affected puppies typically show severe, full-body tremors, coordination issues, and muscle weakness starting between two and eight weeks of age, particularly when they attempt to stand.
This progressive disease is currently incurable, with costs for supportive care and diagnostic confirmation typically ranging from 300 to 1,500 EUR. Because the puppy's quality of life declines rapidly, humane euthanasia is usually necessary.
More conditions affecting the Spine.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
