Progress in the field of genetics has been moving by leaps and bounds during the past few years. It wasn’t long ago that researchers discovered ways to unravel and study DNA, that elusive strand of genes that inhabits each and every cell. Once that breakthrough was made, discoveries came at an almost dizzying pace. Specific genes were identified and located. Another startling and, to many, disturbing, step forward came recently. Scientists cloned a sheep.

What does all this mean to the horseman? It can and should mean a great deal. By taking advantage of past and present knowledge, we can take steps to produce stronger, healthier horses and steer away from some crippling diseases