Mo Ghra Labrador
This is our passion thus we do our very best in every way!
Health & Wellness
This is a very important to us and such a big topic from before breeding with OFA and DNA testing to
Vaccination and deworming while your pup is in our care
to when to Spay/neater should happen we try to cover what we are doing and why
Dewclaws
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Functionality: Front dewclaws contact the ground when a dog is running or turning, particularly during agility or high-speed activities.
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Injury Prevention: They prevent the leg from twisting, which reduces stress on ligaments in the carpal (wrist) joint.
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Risks of Removal: Removing them can lead to chronic, severe carpal arthritis due to increased, unsupported stress on the joints.
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Recommendation: Dr. Zink recommends keeping the front dewclaws intact unless they are injured or infected.
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Expertise: Dr. Zink is a specialist in canine sports medicine and rehabilitation, with extensive experience in the biomechanics of canine athletes.
Spaying & Neutering
Delayed spaying/neutering for gun dogs is generally recommended, often until 24 months, to allow for full physical and mental maturity, leading to better joint development, confidence, focus, and reduced anxiety, though it requires managing heat cycles for females and potential marking in males; it's a balance between hormonal benefits for performance and potential health/behavioral risks.
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Hormonal Influence: Sex hormones play crucial roles in brain and physical development, impacting confidence, drive, focus, and impulse control.
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Physical Maturity: Waiting allows for skeletal and muscular development, reducing risks for certain joint issues like hip dysplasia.
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Behavioral Benefits: Intact dogs often show less fear/anxiety-based behaviors (like separation anxiety or noise phobia) compared to those altered early.
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Performance: Proper hormonal balance supports the high energy and consistent performance needed to work.
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Vaccinations
While in our care, puppies receive vaccinations at 6, 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age.
Microchips are implanted at 8 weeks of age.
Puppies receive routine dewormers and treatments against common intestinal parasites every 3 weeks while with us
Rabies shots must be administered by a veterinarian after 16 weeks of age.
OFA, DNA & CHIC
Hips and Elbows : We Xray the hips of breeding stock and have them evaluated by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. However, prospective puppy owners should be aware that hip dysplasia is one of the most studied of retriever medical issues, though the research is still fuzzy and sparse compared to research in the human sector. Many studies have shown that hip dysplasia is not 100% genetic - there are environmental factors that can affect malformation in the joints.
Eyes: We DNA screen for Progressive Retinal Atrophy. PRA has been a lurking problem in the Labrador population in the past but has been greatly improved in the last few years by a partnership between the Veterinary Association and Kennel Clubs to make is mandatory that PRA results. we also go to a Veterinary Ophthalmologist to complete OFA requirements.
Cardiac: We DNA screen for EIC Exercise-induced collapse is an autosomal recessive disorder that has been reported in over 20 breeds; it occurs most commonly in Retrievers. We also see a board-certified veterinary cardiologist in accordance with CHIC recommendations for a cardiac halter monitor test. We have not seen any symptoms of this in any of our dogs or their pups.
Contact
971-275-3347 TXT is best
We look forward to having a conversation with you soon. Thank you for considering us on you quest for your next family member!
