Benefits to comparative medicine fields occur through study of pet animals that are housed within human quarters, giving the same exposures to the animals, and at the same time can reduce the need for laboratory breeding colonies;
HOW?
Disease-screening techniques are becoming more and more accurate
(including dna) for identifying affected phenotypes as well as
clinically unaffected carriers; the experts are agreeing on the
protocol for scientific data-gathering of the diagnoses of increasing
numbers of suspected-to-be-inherited diseases.
Relational computer databases make it possible to piece together a family genotype picture by filing single phenotypic evaluations of a dog along with those of other family members, even though they may live large distances apart. Open, full-disclosure registration of data is a reality at GDC. These are data that adhere to the current diagnostic protocols that are agreed to amongst the active scientists in a particular disease and can be used not only to select better breeding stock, but also for research to better understand the disease process itself.
WHO?
Willing dog owners agree to build these family records to
large enough numbers by screening all young animals for the major
genetic diseases that occur or are suspected in their breed.
The dog owners depend on qualified veterinarians to perform
the screening tests and follow up with registration of
the results in a full disclosure (open), family-linked registry.
These must be veterinarians who openly encourage and support participation
in gathering of data for genetic disease control in purebred animals.
Now there is a need to bridge the GAP
Who are the experts that will bridge the GAP between the scientific
information that comes from the database and the breeder who uses
it (and usually alone) makes the final choice of breeding
stock? Currently, this choice will most often be by intuition
rather than by practical application of the knowledge gained through
the databases (which would improve the odds of getting healthier,
longer lives in dogs they produce).