In a message dated 12/14/2005 9:31:35 AM Pacific Standard Time, carolynmckenna@xxxxxxxxx writes: thar is not attached to the bottom of the ribcage (sternum). All dogs have it. Carolyn I have to disagree with this. Humans have the same condition. The rib is attached to the sternum however it is not attached by cartlidge, only tendon. Therefore, it is loose and not secure as with the upper ribs. This is the rib that models have removed to make them look skinnier. It is not a condition that will cause a problem to humans or dogs. Laura Thomas http://www.treasureranchgsds.com/ ============================================================================ POST is Copyrighted 2005. All material remains the property of the original author and of GSD Communication, Inc. NO REPRODUCTIONS or FORWARDS of any kind are permitted without prior permission of the original author AND of the Showgsd-l Management. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL PERSONS ARE ON NOTICE THAT THE FORWARDING, REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER OF ANY MATERIAL WHICH APPEARS ON SHOWGSD-L WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ALL PARTIES TO THE POST AND THE LIST MANAGEMENT IS EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN, AND IS A VIOLATION OF LAW. VIOLATORS OF THIS PROHIBITION WILL BE PROSECUTED. For assistance, please contact the List Management at admin@xxxxxxxxxxxx VISIT OUR WEBSITE - http://www.showgsd.org ============================================================================