by Dr. Morris Samson, Kingston Road Animal Hospital, with Joanne Ingrassia
For Beach Metro –November 19, 2002 issue

With concerns about where humans are taking genetic engineering these days, whether in regards to production of food or even the potential to affect human offspring, we might do well to look at what’s already happened to the canine species as humans have genetically manipulated dog breeds for years.

The Canadian Kennel Club, with over 25,000 members and 700 breed clubs across Canada, encourages members to participate in “shows, trials and other events” with their dogs “in order to preserve and enhance each breed’s characteristics.” Their Code of Ethics goes on to talk about “strengthening the genetic pool” to “guarantee further progression toward the ideals of the standard”. But in my opinion, promotion of this kind of objectification and exploitation is akin to people who promote baby beauty contests.

It’s too bad we can’t breed human ethics.

And in efforts to continue to breed purebred dogs to compete for some sense of “perfection”, dog show awards, or simply status, there can unfortunately be adverse side effects - physical malformations, sensitivities or potential to suffer from particular ailments like hip dyplasia or vision problems common to certain breeds, and a host of other problems that can be caused by inbreeding or over-breeding dogs.

While many breeders are conscientious and careful in how they raise dogs, there are many that are not, and often the public is not informed enough to know how to tell the difference. There are also breeders who are purposely mixing breeds with the intent of combining particular attributes of different breeds into one dog. That’s how we got the “snoodle” – a cross between a schnauzer and a poodle. But with what result? A dog who doesn’t shed as much or is more hypo-allergenic for people with dog allergies? And do we really have the right to manipulate another species just to make it more convenient for humans?

Then there are the notorious “puppy mills” that literally churn out dogs, one litter after another. These dogs are ill-treated or not cared for properly, often left in small cages until these unscrupulous people can sell their “wares” to pet stores or uninformed people looking to buy a dog. Over the past couple of years, the Ontario SPCA has made major inroads in trying to shut down puppy mills across the province and rescue as many dogs as they can. But so often many of the pups and even the mother dogs have had to be put down due to the gross neglect the dogs had suffered.

There are better options if you want to find a dog to add to your family, starting with veterinarians who can advise you on where to look and what to look for when choosing a dog. Many vet practices, including the Kingston Road Animal Hospital, often have dogs and cats available for adoption that they have taken in for various reasons. There are a wide variety of humane societies, animal sanctuaries and animal rescue groups that can also be a good source of wonderful pets. There may be someone in your circle of friends, family and acquaintances that has a pet in need of a new home.

There are more dogs out there than there are good available homes. So before you decide you only want a buy a purebred dog (which perpetuates even more breeding), or go to a breeder or pet store who may be getting unhealthy or badly cared for dogs from puppy mills, I would encourage you to look at these other options first. Adopt a dog in need of a good home and find a friend for life!