Today, June 18 2008, the puppies went to the vet's office to have their tails docked and their dewclaws removed. What, might you ask, happens to the tail tips? Well, in the past, I've just had my vet dispose of them in whatever manner they arrange for the disposal of other animal matter. But this time, each tail has been bagged, labeled with their collar colour and gender and frozen in my freezer. The purpose? After each puppy is registered with the Cdn Kennel Club, the tail tips along with copies of their registration papers and pedigree will be sent to the Vizsla Epilespy study in the US. I'll be sending bloodwork from mom (Miska), grandmom (Nova) and several of the relatives to aid in this important research for our breed. One day, it's hoped, we will find a DNA marker for this disease that exists – at a low level - in our breed.
I applaud you for your participation in this study! Thank you for making a healthy contribution to our lovely breed of choice
ReplyDeleteLike rocket's mom I too am impressed with your use of the "tails". We could think about doing this in GWPs.
ReplyDeleteWish you all the very best with the litter.