Resolving Pedigree Disputes
GUIDELINES FOR PEDIGREE DISPUTES AND USE OF DNA EVIDENCE
The American Dog Breeders Association Inc., as a registry for purebred American Pit Bull Terriers, reserves the right to investigate the parentage of dogs registered with their association any time that a question arise. This is mandated, as the correctness of the information in the Stud Book is critical to the foundation of our database.
Occasionally customers request that the ADBA require other customers to have their dogs DNA tested because they suspect false certifications as to the correct parentage of their dog(s) or litter(s). These cases usually arise when one of the parties involved refused to cooperate by having their dog(s) DNA tested (Click here to go to DNA Certification) in order to satisfy the suspicions/concerns of other parties. Each case will be handled on an individual basis, with respect to all parties involved. The following are general guidelines that will be followed in the majority of cases.
Each challenge must be presented to the ADBA Inc., in writing, specifying the nature of the allegation and must be accompanied by a $500.00 fee. If the allegations are proven to be true, the deposit is returned minus $50 for administrative fees. If the allegations are proven false, then the deposit is forfeited and becomes property of the ADBA Inc. and will be used to cover expenses.
The ADBA Inc. will work with customers to make pedigree corrections where possible. Under the terms of this policy, in cases where the parentage is proven to be incorrect, the responsible parties will be billed for the DNA processing costs and correction fees. Registration privileges will be placed on hold until payment is made. In cases where parentage corrections cannot be made, the necessary cancellations will be processed. Intentional fraud cases will be handled on an individual basis with the association. Damages between customers must be settled between the two parties involved, or by a decision of a local state court. The individuals requesting will pay for pedigree corrections.
To facilitate the identification of the dogs involved, the challenge must be made within one (1) year of acquiring the dog in question. Only the breeder, owner of the sire or the dam or owner of the dog can bring the challenge.
Collection of samples to be sent for DNA testing will be overseen and certified by a sanctioned judge or representative approved by ADBA. They will be processed through the ADBA’s DNA testing program at MMI Genomics in Davis, California. Each case will be handled on an individual basis and the procedure for the collection of the DNA samples etc. will be directed by the ADBA Inc. office.
