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about health in our two breeds is published at regular intervals
in the magazine of R.A.L.I.E. in order to inform the owners
and breeders about the main pathologies.
At the
2003 Breed Show, R.A.L.I.E. organised an investigation –
free of charge, anonymous and optional – of the heart
diseases, especially the dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) of the
Irish Wolfhound. The day before, a very explanatory lecture
with slides had been given (Magazine n° 110).
The prevalence
of this disease in the Irish Wolfhound breed is proven. It
already forms the subject of studies in several countries
and we could no longer ignore this problem since health is
the first criterion of selection.
Since
then, we have put up a protocol of investigation – with
the assistance of specialists in the matter – which
entered into force on the 25th of Feb. 2006, when the majority
of the Board of RALIE had accepted it. Previously, it had
been validated and accepted by the Zootechnical Commission
of the French Kennel Club (SCC) and by the National Superior
Council of the Order of Veterinaries.
The goal
of this investigation is to lower the incidence of DCM in
our population. Being and evolutive pathology, we ask for
a testing every 18 months. The echographical examination will
be practised according to a specific protocol and the results
transmitted for interpretation to an official Expounder, chosen
by the club, who will be the only one entitled to classify
the dogs.
Furthermore,
the testing will be included in the Quotation
System: the examination will be compulsory for acceding
to the distinctions Recommendated (4 points), Elite B (5 points)
and Elite A (6 points) with the result “free from DCM”
dating from less than 18 months. For the other hounds (not
recommendated), even if it will not be obligatory, it remains
strongly advised and the mention “free from DCM”
will be added in the list of litters born. This will doubtlessly
set up a criterion of selection for the future puppy buyers.
France
is an important breeding country and it is therefore essential
to join the circle of those who are already selecting, in
order to give more weight to this venture which must pass
beyond the boundaries of the frontiers with the only aim to
improve the breeds.
N.B.
The details of the protocol and the forms to use for testing
and screening may be consulted and downloaded in their French
version. Because of their relevance for Wolfhound breeders
and owners living in France only, they have not been translated
into English.
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