How common is HYPP?
Another study by Dr. Spier determined the frequency of HYPP in the horse population. The study found that the gene is not being diluted in subsequent generations. Instead, it is being passed on with high frequency. In still another study to determine the gene frequency, 1,000 horses were chosen at random by the University of California at Davis to test for HYPP. The data concluded that the HYPP gene is infrequent among American Quarter Horses, yet is substantially linked to pedigrees tracing back to a common sire. “It is hopeful that HYPP will decrease among breeding stock during the next decade,” Dr. Spier states, “as long as breeders continue to select stock free from the gene.” What about testing? All offspring of Impressive should be tested for HYPP. Horses with suspicious symptoms of the disease should also be tested. Testing can be performed by contacting a veterinarian or calling the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at (916) 752-7416. A recorded message will explain how to submit
