[yorkiesmiles]

Originally Posted by Mardelin

I can't speak to the UK, but it appeared to me that the buckled under PETA pressure (just my opinion) by not televising Crufts.

YTCA has not just begun to add them, it has been working avedly over the last few years, so it's not under public pressure. YTCA exhibitor/breeders have had a code of conduct and ethics in place since it's inseption. The dreaded disease that plagues our breed is Shunt. Yes, we can bile acid test, however, the test may prove your dog clear of shunt, but it does not reveal whether you dog is a carrier or not. I will honestly tell you I know of no YTCA breeder that would knowingly breed a shunt dog. We do are best to eradicate (and I don't mean by putting down a dog, just not breeding) life threatening diseases. In the case of LP, well it is a problem that plagues toy breeds. In the recent years responsible breeders are taking care not to breed the dogs that have an genetic predisposition to it. That doesn't mean your dog cannot aquire it, by allowing them to jump, etc.

As far as encouraging extreme standards, I'm just glad that things are changing. King Charles Cavaliers have taken great measures in eliminating MVP. Dobermans now have a genetic marker (I can't remember the disease that afflicted that breed). Hip Dysplasia can be determined by x-raying breedable dogs. There is testing being done by reputable breeders, but unless you are involved in the breed and dog world, you really don't know what is being done and believe me there is alot being done.

That's why even something intended to harm (PETA's efforts) can be turned around used for good - if the advances in testing & discussions like this take place. Those changing things just need to have voices louder than PETA and organizations like them