the karlton index measuring progress in dog health
DESCRIPTION
A framework to develop breed health strategiesTRANSCRIPT
The Karlton Index™Measuring progress in the health of our dogsPHILIPPA ROBINSON BA Hons MSc CIPD
The Karlton Index™ Launched March 2011
The Karlton Index provides a framework through which we can measure our progress on breed health
Which breeds are doing the most to secure the future well being of their dogs?
Which are translating those actions into meaningful improvements to breed health?
Which breeds are avoiding serious health issues?
Four dimensions
Leadership and Strategy
Communication and engagement
Participation
Evaluate impact
Breeds develop a balanced but wide ranging strategy to breed for health and optimum welfare
Excellent guidelines for such a strategy can be found at http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/97934/bhcbreedhealthimpstrat.pdf
They identify the resources needed to support the strategy
They define their approach to breed health surveillance
They assess their health priorities for the short and medium term
They define their approach to health testing
They publish the strategy
Breed clubs communicate their health strategy and priorities to a wide audience including breed club members, breeders, pet owners, non-members, through social media and traditional publications
Regular updates on health are communicated
Results and analysis of health surveys and other health reports are communicated widely
Collaboration with other clubs, other breeds and the scientific community are actively encouraged and supported
Breeders and owners participate in health surveys and health reporting
Breeders and owners take part as appropriate in the health testing protocols outlined for the breed
People attend health events to develop their knowledge and understanding of breed health
The breed’s health strategy is well supported
The breed health strategy as implemented through communication, engagement and participation has a positive impact on the health and welfare of the dogs
Four dimensions
If a good strategy has been adopted and communicated effectively, and the appropriate levels of participation have been achieved there should be a demonstrably positive impact on health of the dogs.
If not it suggests there is a flaw somewhere in the breed’s approach. This can be reviewed and the strategy altered accordingly
Assumptions
Taking a very close look at what is being done on leadership, strategy, communication, engagement, and participation will accelerate our understanding of breed health issues
Assessing how those behaviours and actions have impacted the health of a breed is essential
The framework encourages more of the right behaviours and actions, shared learning and experience with other breeds, passing that knowledge and wisdom on to future generations.
An objective view/measure adds value
Moving forward for 2014
Evaluate the framework in collaboration with the “industry”
A framework all can confidently buy into
Develop breed clubs expertise in the framework requirements
Assess all breeds against the framework again (suggested time post Crufts 2015)
Dogs mean different things to people
But what we all want is
Every dog to enjoy a healthy, well adjusted long happy life.
www.thekarltonindex.com
What is our vision for this puppy?
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The next full scoring against the Index is planned for Summer 2015
For more details contact Philippa Robinson Philippa(at)thekarltonindex.com