"There
is not much that we can do about genetic transmission in
randomly bred animals, but for purposely bred animals, breeders must use
due diligence to prevent inherited disease. Responsible breeders
perform genetic testing of parent breeding stock for breed-susceptible
disorders."
-Jerold S. Bell DVM
Our breeding dogs are Health Tested for genetic disease.
When looking for a puppy, you should demand to see ALL health certificates.
If you are paying $1500-2500 for a puppy without health testing,
you are asking for multiple costly vet visits down the road or early death.
A yearly visit to a veterinarian does not screen your puppy's parents for genetic disease.
This is not good enough to produce HEALTHY puppies.
An AKC or other Championship does not equal quality.
Ask for Health Testing results from the OFA as proof of health testing.
Your puppy's parents must be x-rayed for hip & elbow displaysia.
They should have their thyroid tested via a blood test.
They should have an EKG or Auscultation done by a cardiologist.
They should have their eyes checked by a canine ophthalmologist.
They should have a DNA test done to check for Degenerative Myelopathy.
If your puppy's breeder is not doing ALL of this at least.... you should not give them a dime.
Say thank you and walk away. There are plenty of Well Bred pets that have
health tested parents. There is no reason for you to "settle" and pay a high price for a poor quality puppy.
Member in good standing of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States
Active Board Member in good standing of the Northeastern Maryland Kennel Club
Member in good standing of the Chesapeake Bay Rhodesian Ridgeback Club
Volunteer for Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue Inc
Member in good standing of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States
Active Board Member in good standing of the Northeastern Maryland Kennel Club
Member in good standing of the Chesapeake Bay Rhodesian Ridgeback Club
Volunteer for Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue Inc
