Starting with a pup from sound parents is the first step. All our breeding stock

has all clearances. However recent studies indicate that as much as 60% of hip,

shoulder and elbow problems are environmentally created. Following the advice in

this paper will help ensure your pup becomes a sound hunting companion.

Pups must be maintained at a proper weight. Excess weight puts undue stress on

the growing joints. You should always be able to feel the ribs and SEE a waist on

your puppy.

Pups should not be feed a diet too high in protein, rapid growth is a major

contributor to joint problems. However, a poor quality food or poor quality protein

will lead to malnutrition, also a contributor to poor joint formation. At this point I

feel that Pure Vita or Zignature have formulas that are the best food to use.

Supplement with 500 mg of a natural Vitamin C from around 14 weeks until at least

a year of age. Currently I am also recommending a canine formula supplement of

glucosamine & chondroitin. I also like to add raw fresh organic fruits & veggies in

moderation. The formula needs to be high enough in protein to allow this without

lowering the protein % below what is adequate for proper growth.

Pups should not be raised on concrete! Pups naturally jump and bounce, concrete

does not give, the growing joints take the punishment.

Pups should not be allowed to jump into/onto or down from vehicles, steps, porches,

etc. They should not be run across gullies, ditches, or extremely uneven ground.

Check for hazards before setting up retrieves. Pups should not be allowed to play

“run and crash” with other dogs or pups. Besides being “rude” this leads to

injuries.

Dogs/pups should never be run/paced on hard surfaces (concrete, asphalt or even

sunbaked or frozen dirt.) Canines are not designed to run at a steady pace. They

naturally run in spurts; fast, slow, and rarely in a straight line. These animals are

not “running companions” unless they can run free off-lead while you run/jog.

Recent studies have linked joint problems (as well as many other issues including

cancer) to early spay/neutering. Evidence suggests it is best to wait until the pup

is sexually mature, the hormones balanced & the growth plates close to spay/

neuter, I urge you to not to be talked into early spay/neutering by your vet.

These suggestions are for everyone with a pup. If you are buying a puppy from me,

they constitute the “bottom-line” for my money back guarantee for soundness.

Please sign below to acknowledge your acceptance of these conditions.

____________________________

as purchaser of a Quartermoon puppy