The Irish Red and White Setter Club of Ireland are launching a Genetic Diversity testing project for Irish Red & White Setters in Ireland and Europe. It is hoped that we will capture as many different breeding lines as possible. We are interested in getting samples from as many different dogs as possible within the breeding pool and we look forward to a high level of participation from owners and breeders. The genetic analysis is being conducted by the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory Davis College, University of California. This is a timely juncture to get a snapshot of where we are in relation to genetic diversity, given that the Outcross Programme has been running for the past 10 years.
The good news is that the Irish Kennel Club are sponsoring 50% of the cost which is greatly appreciated. The cost per dog is $50 for the first 50 dogs, and then $80 per dog thereafter ( less the subsidy). It is hoped we can complete the project within a 6 week timeframe.
Interested breeders/owners can get started by creating an account and ordering on MyVgl site https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/myvgl
To avail of the 50% discount you will need the discount coupon number. For same email irishredandwhitesetterclub@gmail.com or contact Jim Sheridan on messenger.
With regard to dogs that are 1st, 2nd, or 3rd generation on the outcross programme when filling out the form, tick the box marked ‘Crossbred’. It will then ask you for Breed 2. If your dog is 1st generation on the outcross programme put ‘Irish Setter’ for Breed 2. If it is 2nd or 3rd generation on the outcross programme put ’Irish Red and White Setter’ as Breed 2.
We are aware that a small number of dogs from Europe took part in the genetic diversity testing that was conducted by the IRWSAA. The DNA information from these will be included in the analyses of the European breeding pool.
Thank you in advance for your participation.
Jim Sheridan
President Irish Red & White Setter Club of Ireland