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"Dortmund Appeal" for a turn in breeding for dogs' benefit
In the mother country of pedigree dog breeding, Great Britain,
the year 2008 marked the beginning of a radical turn. The only aim of this turn
is to centre the welfare and health of dogs in breeding from now on consequently
and without restrictions. Also Austria has already taken steps in this matter.
We also see the necessity of such a turn in breeding in Germany.
The signees' preferential aim of each dog-fancier is to
campaign for the health and welfare of our dogs. So far, not early enough
attention has being paid to the health of dogs in breeding. Unfortunately,
inbreeding, excessive breeding, hereditary diseases culminating in
characteristics of inhumane breeding practice are not uncommon. Whole breeds are
not able anymore to breed without active help of humans.
We appeal to the responsible persons in breed clubs and
breeder's associations, to breeders as well as dog owners and public authorities
to campaign for a sustained turn in breeding for the benefit of welfare and
health of our dogs!
Using these three verbs, the biggest breeder's association of
the world, the British "Kennel Club" describes its turn to breeding considering
the health of dogs. Actually it should be a matter of course to respect and keep
elementary functions of life. Especially the breeders of our dogs should be
expected to respect the health of dogs without compromise and to put this on the
first place of breeder's endeavour.
By pedigree dog breeding, standards which are considered as
basis have already established. However, an unreasonable development has been in
progress. This development shall be led to healthy dogs by the measures
mentioned here. The exterior of a dog must not affect breathing, seeing, moving
or any other natural need in no way. Impairments or particular risks concerning
health, especially hereditary diseases, must not be supported by specific
accentuation of particular attributes. The welfare and health of dogs must
absolutely rank first.
The problem of inbreeding, mating of related individuals or
line breeding is knowingly ignored or minimised in many parts of pedigree dog
breeding. The danger of inbreeding concerning the risk of hereditary diseases,
resistance to disease, vitality and life expectancy of all mammals is
scientifically answered though. Inbreeding has to be considered cruelty to
animals, covering entire populations in the long run. Rules must be established
for each breed to support and secure the genetic diversity in the future. A
genetics database is to be established. Stud dogs must be imposed a restriction.
Artificial genetic barriers concerning e.g. club membership or coat colouring
are to be abolished.
Awards must not be given only for the outward appearance.
Cosmetic manipulation regarding dogs are to be refused. Character, health and
genetic amenities for the population have to take centre stage and are to be
proofed. Character and procedure of shows are to be changed accordingly. Judges
are to be trained, instructed and chosen.
The German animal welfare law says in fact that it is
prohibited to inflict pain or suffering on an animal. The reality of dog
breeding sometimes seems to override this law. There are breeds which are able
to reproduce only via caesarean or other help of humans. Selective breeding with
hereditary diseases, inordinateness of several characteristics like coat,
colouring, folds, ears, slanted backs, angulation of hind leg, extreme dwarfism
and giant breed etc. cause tremendous suffering for the dogs without the animal
welfare law coming into action. Also massive impairment concerning socialization
of puppies, e.g. by dog dealing, is not gripped by current law.
We need an animal protection law taking effect in practice.
Men's demands of our dogs are highly ambitious in these days.
A neutral character of the dog is required. A dog must not show its own
initiative towards aggression towards men and/or conspecifics. The breeder shall
confront the puppy with environmental impact as often as possible to obtain a
neutral dog of steady character. Excessive insecurity / anxiousness, especially
regarding bitches imprinting puppies, shall not be tolerated.
Man has to make sure that the puppies get a socialization as
good as possible to be able to cope with their tasks.
We need new ethics in breeding which is consequently geared to
the welfare and health of dogs and prepares them for their life in our society.
In pedigree dog breeding, a certificate of qualification, observance of binding
and transparent rules and admission of independent examinations are needed. On
this basis, a state-approved permission for breeding and sale of dogs is
required. Breeder's measures to the disadvantage of dogs' health are to be
sanctioned.
We need an independent quality management for breeding. The
breeding of "our best friend" should be worth more care.
Dortmund im Juni 2009
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