Philip Hoover Top Dog Breeder of Memphis MO USDA 43-A-5673

Philip Hoover USDA Licensed and Inspected Dog Breeder of Memphis, MO

Philip Hoover - USDA License No. 43-A-5673

Philip Hoover has a perfect record of over eight (8) years of excellent inspection reports. Philip Hoover has never had any direct violation sited in any of inspections of his state-of-the-art kennel.

USDA APHID inspection requirements for professional dog breeders:

For nearly 50 years, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has enforced the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to protect certain animals from inhumane treatment and neglect. Congress passed the AWA in 1966 and strengthened the law through amendments in 1970, 1976, 1985, 1990, 2002, 2007, and 2008. The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) administers the AWA, its standards, and its regulations.

The AWA requires that basic standards of care and treatment be provided for certain animals bred and sold for use as pets, used in biomedical research, transported commercially, or exhibited to the public. Individuals who operate facilities in these categories must provide their animals with adequate care and treatment in the areas of housing, handling, sanitation, nutrition, water, veterinary care, and protection from extreme weather and temperatures. Although Federal requirements establish basic standards, regulated businesses are encouraged to exceed these standards.

The AWA regulates the care and treatment of warmblooded animals, except those (such as farm animals) that are used for food, fiber, or other agricultural purposes. Currently, coldblooded animals, such as snakes and alligators, are exempt from coverage under the Act. Animal shelters and pounds are regulated if they sell dogs or cats to dealers or research facilities. Pets owned by private citizens are not regulated.

The AWA requires that all individuals or businesses dealing with animals covered under the law must be licensed or registered with APHIS.

Regulated research facilities include hospitals, colleges and universities, diagnostic laboratories, and many private firms in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. In addition to providing basic standards of veterinary care and animal husbandry, regulated research facilities must provide dogs with the opportunity for exercise and promote the psychological well-being of nonhuman primates used in laboratories. Researchers must use methods to avoid or minimize discomfort, distress, and pain to the regulated animals unless withholding such methods is scientifically justified. The AWA also forbids the unnecessary duplication of previous experiments using regulated animals.

Research facilities must establish an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee to oversee the use of animals in experiments. This committee is responsible for ensuring that the facility remains in compliance with the AWA and for providing documentation of all areas of compliance to APHIS. The committee must be composed of at least three members, including one veterinarian and one person who is not affiliated with the facility in any way.

Attending veterinarians play a crucial role in ensuring the humane treatment of animals under the Animal Welfare Act. Dealers, exhibitors, and research facilities employ attending veterinarians to provide adequate veterinary care to their animals and to oversee other aspects of animal care and use. In this role, veterinarians have the opportunity to expand their practice, provide veterinary care to a large number of diverse kinds of animals, and work alongside their clients and Animal Care to ensure the humane treatment of more than two million regulated animals.

The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) was passed to assure that humane care is provided to animals sold as pets or used in research, experimentation, or exhibition. As an attending veterinarian working with the licensee or registrant of a facility regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), you will play a crucial role in ensuring the provision of adequate veterinary care and overseeing the adequacy of other aspects of animal care and use.

This module explains the role of the part-time attending veterinarian, their relationship with a USDA-regulated facility and USDA inspectors, and general knowledge of the Animal Welfare Act. Full-time attending veterinarians for USDA-regulated facilities will also find this presentation helpful.

After completing this module, you will:

Know some of the benefits of becoming an attending veterinarian
Understand the Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare regulations for facilities with a part-time attending veterinarian
Be able to explain the regulatory requirements of licensees and registrants to provide veterinary care
Be able to explain the role of the part-time attending veterinarian
Be able to describe the elements of programs of adequate veterinary care
Understand why a USDA inspector may contact you to ask about veterinary care at a regulated facility for which you are serving as an attending veterinarian

Completion of this module is estimated to take 50 minutes, but will vary depending on your familiarity with the information presented. Links to documents and resources that explain in detail the role of the part-time attending veterinarian are provided throughout the module.

Investigation Report of Philip Hoover Dog Breeder

ACA News Investigations Philip Hoover Dog Breeder Report

ACA News Investigations have revealed dog breeder Philip Hoover conducts extensive veterinary certifications on the mothers and father of puppies. Philip Hoover’s veterinarians oversee all aspects of both the genetic physical health and daily socialization programs he has in place at his state-of-the-art kennel. During the investigation reports viewed Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) verified certificates detailing the high degree of veterinary oversight and extensive testing professional dog breeder Philip Hoover preforms on the father and mothers of the puppies.

Philip Hoover’s family-owned kennel is located in Memphis, MO. Philip Hoover is a professional dog show handler and has received awards and "Achievement of Excellence" for several years in a row. These awards demonstrate the highest level of accomplishment responsible dog breeders work towards to be proclaimed the finest in the nation. Requirements for these awards can be found at https:www.starbreeder.org/requirements.aspx.

What is Patellar Luxation?

The patella, or kneecap, is part of the stifle joint (knee). In patellar luxation, the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place, either in a medial or lateral position.

Bilateral involvement is most common, but unilateral is not uncommon. Animals can be affected by the time they are eight weeks of age. The most notable finding is a knock-knee (genu valgum) stance. The patella is usually reducible, and laxity of the medial collateral ligament may be evident. The medial retinacular tissues of the stifle joint are often thickened, and the foot can be seen to twist laterally as weight is placed on the limb.

Patellar luxations fall into several categories:

Medial luxation (toy, miniature, and large breeds)
Lateral luxation (toy and miniature breeds)
Lateral luxation (large and giant breeds)
Luxation resulting from trauma (various breeds, of no importance to the certification process)

Numbers 1-3 are either known to be heritable or strongly suspected.

Medial Luxation in Toy, Miniature, and Large Breeds

Although the luxation may not be present at birth, the anatomical deformities that cause these luxations are present at that time and are responsible for subsequent recurrent patellar luxation. Patellar luxation should be considered an inherited disease.

Clinical Signs

Three classes of patients are identifiable:

Neonates and older puppies often show clinical signs of abnormal hind-leg carriage and function from the time they start walking; these present grades 3 and 4 generally.
Young to mature animals with grade 2 to 3 luxations usually have exhibited abnormal or intermittently abnormal gaits all their lives but are presented when the problem symptomatically worsens.
Older animals with grade 1 and 2 luxations may exhibit sudden signs of lameness because of further breakdown of soft tissues as result of minor trauma or because of worsening of degenerative joint disease pain.

Signs vary dramatically with the degree of luxation. In grades 1 and 2, lameness is evident only when the patella is in the luxated position. The leg is carried with the stifle joint flexed but may be touched to the ground every third or fourth step at fast gaits. Grade 3 and 4 animals exhibit a crouching, bowlegged stance (genu varum) with the feet turned inward and with most of the weight transferred to the front legs.

Permanent luxation renders the quadriceps ineffective in extending the stifle. Extension of the stifle will allow reduction of the luxation in grades 1 and 2. Pain is present in some cases, especially when chondromalacia of the patella and femoral condyle is present. Most animals, however, seem to show little irritation upon palpation.

Lateral Luxation in Toy and Miniature Breeds

Lateral luxation in small breeds is most often seen late in the animal’s life, from 5 to 8 years of age. The heritability is unknown. Skeletal abnormalities are relatively minor in this syndrome, which seems to represent a breakdown in soft tissue in response to, as yet, obscure skeletal derangement. Thus, most lateral luxations are grades 1 and 2, and the bony changes are similar but mirrored to those described for medial luxation. The dog has more functional disability with lateral luxation than with medial luxation.

Clinical Signs

In mature animals, signs may develop rapidly and may be associated with minor trauma or strenuous activity. A knock-knee or genu valgum stance, sometimes described as seal-like, is characteristic. Sudden bilateral luxation may render the animal unable to stand and so simulate neurological disease. Physical examination is as described for medial luxation.

Lateral Luxation in Large and Giant Breeds

Also called genu valgum, this condition is usually seen in the large and giant breeds. A genetic pattern has been noted, with Great Danes, St. Bernards, and Irish Wolfhounds being the most commonly affected. Components of hip dysplasia, such as coxa valga (increased angle of inclination of the femoral neck) and increased anteversion of the femoral neck, are related to lateral patellar luxation. These deformities cause internal rotation of the femur with lateral torsion and valgus deformity of the distal femur, which displaces the quadriceps mechanism and patella laterally.

Clinical Signs

Bilateral involvement is most common. Animals appear to be affected by the time they are 5 to 6 months of age. The most notable finding is a knock-knee (genu valgum) stance. The patella is usually reducible, and laxity of the medial collateral ligament may be evident. The medial retinacular tissues of the stifle joint are often thickened, and the foot can often be seen to twist laterally as weight is placed on the limb.

Patellar Luxation Grades

The Patellar Luxation Database is for dogs 12 months and over. Examinations performed on dogs less than 12 months will be treated as consultations and no OFA numbers will be assigned.

A method of classifying the degree of luxation and bony deformity is useful for diagnosis and can be applied to either medial or lateral luxations by reversing the medial-lateral directional references. The position of the patella can easily be palpated starting at the tibial tubercle and working proximally along the patellar ligament to the patella.

Grade 1: Manually the patella easily luxates at full extension of the stifle joint, but returns to the trochlea when released. No crepitation is apparent. The medial, or very occasionally, lateral deviation of the tibial crest (with lateral luxation of the patella) is only minimal, and there is a very slight rotation of the tibia. Flexion and extension of the stifle are in a straight line with no abduction of the hock.

Grade 2: There is frequent patellar luxation, which, in some cases, becomes more or less permanent. The limb is sometimes carried, although weight bearing routinely occurs with the stifle remaining slightly flexed. Especially under anesthesia, it is often possible to reduce the luxation by manually turning the tibia laterally, but the patella reluxates with ease when manual tension of the joint is released. As much as 30 degrees of medial tibial torsion and a slight medial deviation of the tibial crest may exist. When the patella is resting medially the hock is slightly abducted. If the condition is bilateral, more weight is shifted onto the forelimbs. Many dogs with this grade live with the condition reasonably well for many years, but the constant luxation of the patella over the medial trochlear ridge of the trochlea causes erosion of the articulating surface of the patella and also the proximal area of the medial lip. This results in crepitation becoming apparent when the patella is luxated manually.

Grade 3: The patella is permanently luxated with torsion of the tibia and deviation of the tibial crest of between 30 degrees and 50 degrees from the cranial/caudal plane. Although the luxation is not intermittent, many animals use the limb with the stifle held in a semi-flexed position. The trochlea is very shallow or even flattened.

Grade 4: The tibia is medially twisted and the tibial crest may show further deviation medially with the result that it lies 50 degrees to 90 degrees from the cranial/caudal plane. The patella is permanently luxated. The patella lies just above the medial condyle and space can be palpated between the patellar ligament and the distal end of the femur. The trochlea is absent or even convex. The limb is carried, or the animal moves in a crouched position, with the limb flexed.

Diagnosing Patellar Luxation

Examination and Certification

The dog is examined awake (chemical restraint is not recommended) and classified by the attending veterinarian according to the application and general information instructions. The veterinarian then completes the application form indicating the results of the dog’s patella evaluation.

The application and fee can then be mailed to OFA. The attending veterinarian and owner are encouraged to submit all evaluations, whether normal or abnormal, for the purpose of completeness of data. There is no OFA fee for entering an abnormal evaluation of the patella in the data bank.

An OFA number will be issued to all dogs found to be normal at 12 months of age or older. The OFA number will contain the age at evaluation and it is recommended that dogs be periodically reexamined as some luxations will not be evident until later in life.

Preliminary Evaluations

Evaluation of dogs under 12 months of age is encouraged if the owner desires to breed at this age. The most opportune time to gather breeding data is at 6-8 weeks of age prior to the puppy’s release to the new owner.

Good Dog Breeder - Philip Hoover of Memphis, MO

Philip Hoover Dog Breeder Code of Ethics

To promote the highest ideals among dog owners and breeders and aim for the continuous improvement of the breed within the framework of the approved breed standard, we pledge that:

I will follow the rules of good sportsmanship which will be a credit to the breed, the club and myself in all dog competition and activities.

I will fully explain to all prospective dog purchasers the advantages as well as the disadvantages of owning the breed.

I will attempt to help and educate novice exhibitors and owners.

I will keep well informed in the field of genetics and work to eliminate hereditary defects from the breed.

I will, before entering a breeding agreement or doing any breeding of my own dogs, carefully analyze the conformation and pedigrees of the prospective sire and dam. I shall refuse the mating if, in my opinion, it will not be in the best interest of the breed. If I deny stud service, I will fully explain my reasons to the owner of the adult breeding female.

I will participate in a program of having my breeding dogs examined by qualified and licensed veterinarians to eliminate common genetic defects from my bloodlines.

When a dog has hereditary faults of such nature as to make his or her use for breeding detrimental to the furtherance of the breed, that dog shall not be bred.

I will refuse to sell my dogs or puppies to anyone who has been convicted of cruelty to animals.

I shall provide my breeding adults and puppies with the very best veterinary care.

I shall administer the optimum feeding program utilizing premium dog foods recommended by my veterinarian.

I shall administer the daily socialization and exercise program as developed by my veterinarian for my adult dogs and puppies.

I shall continue to show my breeding dogs in ACA sanctioned dog shows.

Additional information from Lisa Stark dog breeders

Puppy socialization is more than just a fun way to show off your adorable new puppy. Helping your puppy have a variety of positive experiences out in the real world ensures that he has the behavioral tools to happily adjust to whatever life throws at him.

Well-socialized puppies grow into confident, happy dogs that are able to adapt to different social environments. Aside from potty training, socialization might be the most important thing you and your new pup do together!

Can You Socialize Puppies Before They’re Fully Vaccinated?

Because a puppy’s vaccination ramp-up happens over the course of weeks, veterinarians used to caution pet parents to keep their puppies home until their series was complete to prevent accidental exposure to infectious diseases.

Unfortunately, this period of isolation also coincided with a critical puppyhood developmental stage, as pups are most open to novel experiences through roughly 16 weeks of age.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) revised their position statement on puppy socialization over 10 years ago to reflect the fact that puppies are more at risk for behavioral problems later in life than infectious diseases during puppyhood.

The revised AVMA statement states that puppies must have a variety of positive socialization experiences before their puppy vaccination series is complete in order to develop important coping mechanisms.

Have a Plan and Make Sure Your Puppy Is Comfortable

There’s a difference between haphazard socialization and well-planned, behavior-focused socialization. As your dog’s advocate, your goal is to introduce your pup to new experiences in a way that builds confidence without forcing him into situations that might make him uncomfortable or nervous.

Since puppy socialization is so critical for healthy development, pet parents might be tempted to pursue it by any means necessary. This can mean forgetting that puppies should also have a voice during the process.

Puppy socialization should always be undertaken in a way that prevents overstimulation, fearfulness or withdrawal. Forcing pups out of their comfort zone in the name of socialization is entirely different from allowing them the choice to have new experiences.

For example, if your pup seems nervous about his new playmates at his first puppy class and chooses to stick close to your chair, the best approach is to let him proceed at his own pace.

Dropping him in the middle of the action might scare him and make him even more reluctant to engage in future classes, particularly if he has a negative experience.

The same goes for meeting new human friends, so don’t plop your pup into your friend’s arms. Instead, allow your puppy to meet new people on his own time and on his own terms.

Always be prepared to step in if you notice your puppy becoming overwhelmed. Doing so will help your puppy recognize that he can rely on you to keep him safe.

How Can You Safely Socialize Your New Puppy?

Now that you know what not to do, here are some tips for successful puppy socialization.

Go to Classes

Puppy socialization classes are a fantastic way to kickstart the process. LoAR for classes run by knowledgeable pet professionals in an environment that’s easy to disinfect.

Check into the class size and curriculum before signing up; classes with too many dogs or those that have more playtime than learning can do more harm than good.

Well-run classes allow time for important dog-dog play, which improves canine communication, as well as brief manners lessons and a pet parent Q&A.

Invite Friends

Once your pup has had a chance to settle into your home, welcome a variety of well-mannered friends over to say hello.

Try to include people from all aspects of your social life; senior citizens, children who know how to interact with dogs, people who wear hats or have facial hair or people who are differently abled.

Instruct visitors to let your puppy approach at his own pace and give them tons of dog treats to hand out to help your pup understand that new friends are fantastic.

Visit Dog Buddies

Take field trips to hang out with friends who have older dogs that are comfortable with puppy shenanigans. Keep in mind that not every adult dog can deal with puppy behavior, which is often pushy and inappropriate, so choose friends with tolerant dogs. That way, if your puppy steps out of line, the adult dog can react with a calibrated correction.

Quick Errands

Public spaces that are dog-friendly but not dog-frequented are great spots for short puppy socialization trips. Your pup can have a variety of positive experiences, and these new environments and friendly faces can help round out your pup’s socialization checklist.

Your adorable pup is a guaranteed to attract attention, so it’s possible that a friendly vet tech might be willing to help you with basic handling exercises.

Thorough puppy socialization helps your puppy adapt to our world in a way that pays off for the rest of his life. Though it’s a critical step in your puppy’s development, it’s a fun and rewarding process that will strengthen your growing bond with your new best friend and lead to a well-adjusted companion.