Winchester came to Castell through the generosity of Millie Williams, Kallista Corgis, in Michigan. With a common desire to rid Corgis (in particular our personal breeding programs) of the insideous disease Degenerataive Myelopathy, Millie and I have "pooled" our resources and Mr. Winnie took up residence in Parma, Idaho.
After Winchester was determined to have both "jewels" and was DNA tested for DM with a CLEAR result I flew out to MI to bring him home. He is also vWD clear by parentage, his eyes were cleared by the ACVO and OFA has given him a prliminary hip reading of "Good". We're very excited and hope to introduce him to our girls this spring!
It is our promise to NEVER, EVER again produce a dog with both genes for this horrid disease. DM robs our corgis of many years of quality life, changes the lifestyle of the owner and, eventually, breaks our hearts when our beloved's can no longer go on. We have many links of information for DM on our main home page.
If you have a dog you suspect is affected with DM, there is a wonderful chat list for corgi owners of both breeds (Pembroke and Cardigan) that have mobility challenges at http://www.yahoogroups.com It is named Wheelcorgis as that is what our guys become...corgis in a wheelchair!
Finally, enjoy some of the young pictures of Winchester. He is developing into a spectacular dog with stunning movement and temperament. He's very much like his Daddy, "Serious Simon". When you talk to Winnie, it's like a little human is in there and understands everything you are saying! He is VERY special and we adore him!
Our hearts will be forever grateful to Millie for her demonstration of love for the Pembroke breed!
