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Originally Posted by OwnedByJezebel  Sheldon sure is cute.
I notice you said earlier that the breeder does genetic testing, and you were going to have it done as well. I'm curious about what kind of genetic testing they did and what you are going to have done.
Genetic testing can be reliably used to prove parentage and to identify the breed (with sometimes questionable results), but what else can be proven by genetic testing? With liver shunt, LP, legg calve perthes, etc. while they are known to be genetic, the genes that cause these ailments have not been identified.
So the breeder's claim to do genetic testing -- what exactly did that prove health-wise WRT her pups? The only benefit I can see is if she needed to prove parentage, but I don't think any health claims can be made based on what is known at this point, and I think you would be wasting your money to have Sheldon genetically tested.
Someone please correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think they have isolated/identified the genes that cause these major ailments. |
We actually (we being my vet and I) decided not to DNA (I was confused in the earlier stages about what tests identify what), but I did have BAT done myself, and his knees are checked every visit and have been fine. He also had other blood tests when they did his panel, but I honestly can't remember what they were at the moment. Again, I can only speak for my own experience, and again I'm sure someone will feel the need to point out that Sheldon is still young, but my dog is very healthy, and Terry has been nothing but knowledgable, friendly, and helpful through the entire process. We actually still touch base from time to time because she kept Sheldon's sister.
I'm still very happy with my decision to get Sheldon. He has been nothing but an absolute joy.