Access to Gundog Health Records

Health Test Results for Gundogs!

If you have the Kennel Club Registration Number or Kennel Club Registered name of a particular gundog, you can now access health test results, not only for that particular dog, but also the parents, siblings and progeny. This information is available http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk/services/public/mateselect/test/Default.aspx

We recently conducted a short survey of 25 Open Gundogs competing at a working test event, the results are as follows:

44% Tested Clear for Gpra (16% were hereditary CLEAR), although 56% remain NOT TESTED
32% Tested Clear for CNM (16% were hereditary CLEAR), although 68% remain NOT TESTED
72% Hip Scored (8% of those tested had scores above the BVA BMA Level), 28% NOT TESTED
36% Elbow Scored (All Zero), although 64% NOT TESTED
28% had current eye certificates.
56% had eye certificates within the last 24 months
72% had eye certificates within the last 36 months.
2 dogs had parents with AFFECTED HC, both of these dogs DID NOT have any Eye Certification on record.

Statistics should always be viewed with caution, but the very fact that this information is available to the public, allows potential breeders and puppy buyers to access a health history, which helps to reduce the risk of breeding potential disease.

The above sample shows that we still have a long way to go, before health testing is universally accepted. Hip & Eye testing programs are well established, although 72% without a current eye certificate, indicates a potential risk. The Kennel Club does not insist on any of these tests, so potential buyers need to make themselves aware of potential problems. Kennel Club Assured Breeders for Labrador Retrievers are required to identify breeding breeding stock with microchips, tatoo's or DNA profile and complete Hip Scores & Annual Eye Testing.

The ABS scheme only recommends Elbow Scoring & DNA test for prcd-PRA.

If someone is selling a cheap Puppy, then be on your guard and make use of the information avaialble to you!

Always insist on receiving copies of health certificates, pedigree's and registration documents, with this information to hand, you can conduct your own health research.

If you require any further information contact our professional Trainer Stewart North either by text 07836736868 or email.