Advance Directives for your Bernese Mountain DogThe time when a beloved Bernese Mt. Dog, (BMD), comes to the close of his/her life, whether due to illness or age, is most difficult for the owner. Often this time comes suddenly, leaving little time to consider what steps to take when death is imminent. Many owners wish to contribute in some way to BMD research, but do not know what to do. The Advance Directives for your Bernese Mountain Dog, attempts to address, in advance, options to allow the Berner to continue to work for the health of the breed even after death.
Click here to download the Advance Directive in pdf
It is suggested that copies of this document be given to the veterinarian, close friend, breeder or any individual who will be involved in the dogs’ end of life. Remember that you can change your mind at any time and amend this directive, but be sure to make certain your veterinarian, and others know what changes are made.
Health Counseling Program
We know that your Berner’s illness is a difficult and emotional time. To assist you, the HMBMDC has established a counseling program to guide you through the process of determining the illness affecting your dog, obtaining a necropsy and donating samples for rsearch. When the need arises, please email or call any of the people listed below for guidance. These folks cannot diagnose disease, but can direct you to resources, guide you through the process and lend a sympathetic ear.
Mary Maliarik • mmaliarik@aol.com • 734-995-1856
Karen Jacobs • KJCooks@comcast.net • 248-737-9496
Denise Vickers • denisev@williamsandbeck.com • 616-696-9324
Paul Vickers • pdvick@sbcglobal.net • 616-696-9324
Diane Welch • dianeRwelch@aol.com • 616-361-5189
Necropsy Reimbursement Program
The only way to reduce genetic illness is through research to assist in knowledgeable breeding decisions. Understanding the exact cause of death is central to this goal. The only way to know what has taken your beloved dog is through biopsy and necropsy (autopsy). This program includes guidance in advance of any problem and a reimbursement program for necropsies performed. There is often a cost for necropsy.
For example, Michigan State University charges $170.00.
When a necropsy is performed, the HMBMDC will reimburse you ½ the cost, up to $85.00.
Send a copy of the paid invoice and necropsy report to: Mary Maliarik, PhD, 5894 Earhart Road, Ann Arbor, MI. Mary will authorize reimbursement. Information on your dog will be entered into the Berner-Garde database. A photo of your dog would be greatly appreciated and entered into our Gallery of Health Heroes.
