Canine subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) is an abnormal, congenital heart murmur caused by subaortic stenosis (SAS).
This genetic trait is polygenic, and in some cases asymptomatic. An animal with SAS may offspring and show no symptoms of the stenosis until multiple generations which is why it is advised not to breed an animal diagnosed with SAS.[1]
Puppies and adult dogs diagnosed with subaortic stenosis can suffer from a range of clinical signs such as fainting, breathing difficulty in the moderate cases or heart failure and sudden death in severe cases[2] . Symptoms also include sudden/strong lethargicism, continuous heavy panting, and a rise in temperature.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) has established a Congenital Heart Registry whose guidelines were established by veterinary cardiologists. A dog which auscultates normally at 12 months of age is considered to be free of congenital heart disease. Upon confirmation of this, OFA will issue a certificate[3] .