The IWC Health Committee is charged with aiding in the preservation and betterment of the Windsprite breed via collection and dissemination of physical and behavioral health information.
We wanted to share something that has been quietly developing over the past several months. A group of people--including an experienced breeder, veterinarians, PhD biologist, dog trainer, and multiple up-and-coming Windsprite breeders, all of us dedicated Windsprite enthusiasts--assembled and applied for the creation of a health committee within the International Windsprite Club. The committee was approved by the board this month. This committee reports to the IWC board.
The committee will serve in an advisory capacity to the board and the membership of the breed club. Recommendations may be made based on research conducted by the committee, peer-reviewed scientific research, and conferring with outside experts. The committee will maintain a strict policy of transparency regarding data collection and information sources. This committee will fill a growing need to manage the increasing volume of health and genetic information, as well as demonstrating to current and future members a commitment to building evidence-based policies around the health of the breed as its popularity increases.
Examples of committee responsibilities in pursuit of the aforementioned goal include:
Gather and track data relevant to breed health and share it on an annual basis.
Curate educational health and behavior resources for Windsprite owners and breeders.
Determine best practices for creating and maintaining genetic diversity for optimal breed health as the population grows.
Develop formal breeder recommendations to encourage best practices and protect breed health.
Committee Membership: Committee terms will be 3 years, renewable, with a total of 5 to 7 committee members at one time. The committee make-up will include a chair or two co-chairs, a board representative, and members at large that reflect a variety of perspectives and areas of expertise. Potential committee members may be nominated by themselves or other IWC members in the 3 months prior to the start of a new term. If the number of nominees exceeds the number of vacancies, committee members may be chosen by a simple majority of IWC members who participate in a runoff election 1 month prior to the start of a new term.
The IWC Health Committee will consult with experts in genetics, biology, canine theriogenology, veterinary medicine, canine behavior, and canine training when appropriate. Any club members with expertise in these areas are welcome to contact the committee at any time. The IWC Health Committee will meet quarterly on Zoom to discuss and collaborate on current committee goals. Subcommittees may meet more frequently as necessary. Minutes will be available to club members after meetings.
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