Big Muddy rancher said:
Some great points TTB.
I can't see why any PB breeder would not want this out in the open once it had been proven. The use of new technology should be a benefit earlier breeders could only wish they had use of.
Thanks BMR. I think one of the hold ups on getting every new registration DNA parent verified/tested is cost. Admittedly it would cost our outfit a lot more to test our entire registered calf crop than it does our entire foal crop.
I do want to say one thing about what I think is one of the best things the RAAA breed has, and that is total herd reporting. Every calf from every female. I honestly believe that sped up finding our genetic problem. Otherwise, if the breeders had not have been forthcoming, they just could have not registered the calf. In our breed, if the calf is dead, you have to say so. THR didn't come without strife in the breed, but I think all of us today would say it has been well worth it!
My opinion is the minute you get cocky enough to say your operation/herd/etc is free of anything is the minute you'll have something. Trust me, I don't rest on my laurels that just because most of herd has a documented carrier eight generations back, means it's free. It means there was a documented carrier eight gens back. We too need to test. Just like I'd say OT should get to testing, if he isn't already. If he isn't, he's like all the others who have stuck their head in the sand! Just because you don't have a currently "dirty" pedigree doesn't mean you don't have a carrier. Having that mentality is what gets everyone in trouble. All of these defects have been around for centuries...and don't forget about pedigree errors...innocent mistakes from ethical breeders for as long as records have been kept. Don't kid yourself.
I wouldn't be surprised if more genes are found impacting these defects. When that happens more carriers will likely be found. I hope I'm wrong, but wouldn't be surprised if I'm right (for the conspiracy theorists out there...I'm no more in the "know" than anyone else, just going off what I know about genetic defects in other species.)
OT, I just read your post, you do have a skin in the game because you are a Black Angus breeder...each and every breeder has a stake. If you don't take your responsibility seriously, you are no better than those you accuse.
Thanks Yanuck. I appreciate you bringing this forth. My frustration with the AAA is it is hard to find this info on their website...almost like they are trying to hide it.
Cheers---
TTB :wink: