Many pets including dogs, cats and rabbits are born with genetic diseases and disorders. Owners often don't know about these diseases, so end up buying a pet that suffers through it's life. If you are thinking about buying a pet, you can find out which conditions you should be aware of at UFAW's Genetic Welfare Problems website.While acknowledging the major contribution made by dog breeders and dog-breeding organisations in trying to improve breed standards, both breeders and scientists have long been aware that all is not well in the world of companion-animal breeding. Welfare concerns associated with modern dog breeding have been discussed in the veterinary literature and the popular press.
Most breeds have their characteristic list of inherited
defects. Some of these defects occur at an unacceptably high frequency.
Other useful websites with information are:
Other useful websites with information are:
If owners choose healthy animals, breeders will breed healthy animals. By choosing a healthy pet, you can help improve the quality of life for many others. It will also save you the upset of owning a pet with a disease that could have been prevented.
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