PP503 - Canine Audiology: What Is Normal?

Abstract:
Due to limited information regarding canine wave V latency values, the purpose of this study was to collect data from brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) testing on canines using a broadband click stimulus at 70 dB peSPL to establish normative data for different breeds of canines. Canines from 7 different breeds were tested to determine the status of hearing and wave V latencies. Data was collected, organized into an Excel sheet, and data analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism software. Overall absolute wave V latencies were calculated, and results also noted the prevalence of hearing loss in different breeds.

Summary:
Purpose Statement
This study aimed to collect data from brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) testing on canines using a broadband click stimulus at 70 dB peSPL to establish normative latency data for different breeds of canines.

Significance of the Study
Canine audiology is not only a relatively new field, but it is also not well known. Normative data is either not available or very limited, especially regarding different breeds. Working canines need to be able to hear. The data collected during this research study will aid those who perform BAER testing on canines in identifying those dogs who have normal hearing from those who have hearing loss.

Study Design
A quantitative research design has been incorporated for this study. The primary focus was the collection of BAER wave V latencies. The collection of these results was intended to develop normative data for different dog breeds.

Sample
Canine participants were collected through numerous resources. Many breeders and pet owners were notified of Idaho State University’s (ISU) canine audiology services through word of mouth from other owners who utilized the service. Others discovered the services through the National website hosted by Louisiana State University identifying BAER test sites and through ISU’s audiology website. Local veterinarians also have an awareness of the testing, and services have been provided at dog shows and other canine events in Idaho. This study includes canines of diverse breeds and ages. No other inclusion or exclusion criteria were used.

Results
Average latencies per breed are found in Table 1. General prevalence of hearing loss per breed is found in Table 2. Statistical significance of wave V latency between breeds was calculated using a p-value of < 0.00238, which was computed using the Post Hoc Bonferroni multiple comparison and compared to t-test values. A statistically significant difference was found in 5 comparisons and is shown in Table 3.

Conclusion
The data collected from this study indicated that Wave V latencies were between 3.905 to 3.965 ms for most breeds and 3.877 ms overall. Statistically significant differences were found between Boston Terriers and the following breeds: Rymans, Cattle Dogs, Dalmatians, and Whippets. Furthermore, statistical differences were found between Cattle Dogs and Rymans as well as Bostons. The prevalence of hearing loss in different breeds from this study was consistent with previous research indicating that Dalmatians have the highest prevalence.

Brief Summary of Clinical Takeaways:
The clinical takeaway is that this research may be used as a stepping stone for further research to obtain normative data for canines by breed.