''Using carriers to clear is perfectly acceptable to keep a decent gene pool.  If everyone did this in one generatiopn you would remove all the affecteds.  You would then be able to gradually phase out the carriers also, without the risks associated with throwing out the baby with the bathwater''.

Brainless, that is exactly what the Irish Setter fraternity have done with CLAD. The breed clubs agreed, in association with the Kennel Club and the AHT, to DNA test every breeding animal prior to mating. The use of affecteds, was not allowed, but the use of carriers was allowed for a 5 year period only ( now expired ). Every puppy born was DNA tested and their registration doc were marked with the result. All this before the pups went to their new homes, so people knew what they were buying. The result is that now, no puppy is ever born with CLAD, nor is a carrier born either, since the 5 year period has elapsed, and only clear to clear is allowed, the disease has been erradicated by determined, caring responsible breeders. A round of applause is called for I think. :) :)

It just goes to show what can be done. All that was achieved in 8 years, from identification of the disease, through development of a DNA test, to erradication.

Dawn R.