Critically evaluating a source of information is important to anyone interested in gaining knowledge. All sources are not equal, and the mere fact that something is published someplace does not make it correct.
There is no doubt that hip and elbow dysplasia are caused by genetics. It is also true that certain factors can make it worse -- but the underlying predisposition has to be there -- caused by genes! The problem with making excuses is that it prevents us from dealing with the real issue. Right now a friend of mine has a berner recovering from elbow surgery -- he is barely a year. I watched him grow up, know his owner, and can tell you she did nothing wrong and that the dog was symptomatic very early. Where is the breeder in all this?? Bad mouthing the owner even though her bitch has thrown other kids with orthopedic issues. Who wins in that situation?? Nobody. And is that a unique situation -- absolutely not. Bad things happen to all of us who breed, and the challenge is not to create inventive excuses, but to deal with the issues head on, eyes open, and with both honesty and integrity. Mary-Ann Bowman Utah
