The
future of the Akita breed rests solely on the breeders. The
health testing recommended by the Akita Club of America
includes hip screening, thyroid testing and eye certification.
Once these tests are completed the dogs will be listed in the CHIC
(Canine Health Information Center) database. This online
database is available to the public - anyone can search the
database. In the search area just choose "Akita"
from the drop down menu and click search. It will amaze you
that as of November 2007 there are only 124 Akitas listed in
the database. There is also an online searchable database
available to the public through the OFA
(Orthopedic Foundation of America) so if you are
researching a specific Akita you can enter any part of the
registered name and find information on health testing as well
as sire, dam, offspring and siblings. This will
give you valuable information if you are considering the
purchase of an Akita or if you are planning a breeding.
There is
lots of information available on the internet: The Akita Club
of America website has sections on Genetics
and Health and Geriatrics as well as upcoming National
Specialties. Check it out ACA
BANK
YOUR DNA. DNA banking is easy! Banking your DNA now will help
to ensure the future health of the dogs we all love so much.
Samples can be made available to researchers if required. It's
easy - by cheek swab or blood sample - see the CHIC website or
the ACA website for more information
Both the
CKC (Canadian
Kennel Club) and AKC
(American Kennel Club) have extensive websites that contain
information on everything from soup to nuts - registrations,
health information, BSL, showing, books etc
If you
are thinking of buying an Akita puppy and you cannot verify
health testing online please be sure to ask the breeder to
supply copies of the certificates
Research,
research and then research some more. Check the online Akita
pedigree database - very valuable if you are researching
pedigrees. Akita
HeadQuarters.
