The report was careful to say that the recommendations applied to the breeding of ALL dogs, breed and crossbreed.
The Kennel Club and show breeders will all be required to jump through the hoops - but no matter what we all do, it will not save us - because the ‘cash crop breeders’ out there will only pay lip service to the recommendations and not, necessarily, bother with them at all.
What about the case of pet ‘Flossy’ (mated to the same breed male round the corner) it’s doubtful their owners will know, or care, about health requirements. Then - the accidental litters - a pet bitch produces an unexpected litter overnight. "I thought she was getting a bit fat." says her surprised owner to the local news reporter! (It still happens.)
If the suggested legislation becomes a fact - and the proposed changes in the law happen - will such people be heavily fined, thrown in prison? Or will anyone even notice?
A computer based collection of diagnoses from Veterinary Surgeons? I definitely think that this is a wise idea. Though I worry that some of these high flying vets with expansive surgeries and expensive treatments may find some of the general pet owners gullible enough to think that they must have every 'recommended' expensive test for "this and that" - but it will be OK - because the pet is insured and they can claim on the insurance, can’t they?
Work is ongoing for the identification of gene sequences and the development of genetic tests - but more funding is needed. I prefer the use of genetic testing (combined with specialist veterinary experience) rather on a veterinary test only - which relies on the opinion of just one person, albeit a specialist in the field.
I’m definitely NOT in favour of putting a microchip into the body of a baby puppy. I don’t like the idea - what damage is done if/when it moves? Would a mother of a human baby want to put a microchip in its body? I certainly wouldn’t want one in MY body.
Our dogs are all KC DNA profiled (though it is unfortunate that the KC advised, selected genetic profile, system is totally out of sync with the rest of the world). However, I think there should be a choice here.
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