| |
|
|
|
SCREENING...
The
breeding of purebred dogs is not an exact science. It is not always possible
to prevent the occurrence of inherited diseases, as there are not yet
definitive tests to identify carriers of genetic diseases in our breed.
A breeder’s obligation with regard to genetic diseases is to make
every effort to prevent their occurrence and to share openly and honestly
all information available regarding the genetic health status of his/her
dogs. While elimination of genetic diseases is a worthy goal, the converse
is that excessive culling of animals from the gene pool may have the equally
deleterious effect of limiting the gene pool in the breed.
Breeders should be cautious about removing animals from the breeding pool
solely because they are distantly related to an affected individual. Breeders
should be able to provide written proof (signed by a veterinarian) that
their breeding stock has been checked for hearing, heart, kidney, and
patella related issues. These tests are called BAER (hearing) test, auscultation
(heart) and/or Doppler Echocardiogram (heart), UPC (urine protein creatinine
ratio – kidney), and palpation for checking patella luxation.
Beware
of breeders who claim “DNA profiled” or “DNA screened”
in their ads. A DNA profile is required by AKC only for identification
purposes. As yet, there are no profiles or screens which assure the absence
of genetic disease associated with a DNA profile or screening.
|
|
