Seven generations from now

[Lisa D Allen]

Regarding the breeding discussion:
With so many Bernese dying before the age of seven
With so many Bernese dying of cancer
With so many Bernese with fragile immune systems
With so many Bernese with questionable orthopedics
With too many Bernese still shy
With good health/care the birthright of any living being
With over 2000 AKC registered Bernese pups each year in the USA alone
With many Bernese now in auctions and pet stores
etc., etc.
Well, I have a frequent dream of all conscientious breeders from all over 
the world, getting together and saying that enough is enough and making a 
plan to start again from scratch even if this means that I cannot obtain a 
Berner pup of quality/health for twenty more years, even if a breeder who 
has been in the breed for thirty years cannot breed for a decade...of these 
breeders making a plan for decreasing the number of sick Bernese by going 
back to the drawing board and making a new plan to create Bernese whose 
frailties would not render them without productive use on a farm
This breed has a reputation among serious dog fanciers due to its 
problems...
Please, I mean this for due consideration and with respect...
I am "nursing" a lovely Bernese with IMPA and bone cancer (in remission) to 
the tune of twenty four thousand dollars...He is doing wonderfully
But, how does this bode for the future of the breed?
I know, we have studies and funds but with so many, many Bernese being 
whelped, with Mother Nature who would never do as we are,
What are we leaving for our great grandchildren?
Lisa Allen

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