Genetic testing has recently been more common for canine and feline companions. If you’re thinking about getting this test done, you may be concerned about whether or not it’s worth the cost.
The majority of the DNA test kits for pets will include a sterile swab which you can use to capture a sample of your pet’s saliva. This can be done to determine the dog’s genetic makeup. This sample might be rolled up and placed inside a tube before being sent. Orivet is a great genetic laboratory where you can send your swabs for a DNA test.
What is the process of pet DNA testing?
Orivet will collect the oral swabs and blood draws to a lab for analysis, and you should expect to have the findings back in about three to four weeks.
Over-the-counter DNA testing is available at pet shops, but your vet may help and guide you. While this is often done with dogs, DNA testing is also becoming common with cats. Even while DNA testing in veterinary medicine is still in its infancy from a scientific standpoint, it has the potential to provide highly useful info to pet parents.
Here’s What the DNA of Your Pet Can Teach You
Even though we have an undying affection for our dogs, we can’t help but wonder what makes each breed unique. Today, it’s possible to learn your pet’s ancestry and breed composition with the help of DNA testing. Below are the things your pet’s DNA test will tell you about your beloved pet.
1. Your pet’s ancestry may be traced using this
The fact that you are familiar with your companion’s breed is another advantage. Confirm if your dog comes from a purebred lineage, or you can investigate the possibility that he is the product of a unique crossbreeding that gives him his personality.
This information helps you gain a better understanding of the mannerisms and looks of your pet. Determine if it is born to be a high-energy athlete or a lazy couch potato. Knowing your pet’s genetic history is essential if you plan to breed him since this will allow you to pass on the best characteristics.
2. Your pet’s genetic makeup might reveal hidden dangers to its health
The most significant advantage of Genetic veterinary testing is the information it may give on specific health risks. This is because certain ailments, illnesses, and traumas are more prevalent in particular breeds than others. You can provide your pet with the best possible care by being aware of these dangers.
If you find out your pet tends to be overweight, you may take steps to prevent it with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Also, you’ll know if your pet has a higher risk of developing an illness like diabetes in old age. You may check for early indications. When well-informed, you will be better able to handle any health emergency.
3. You may also identify inherited illnesses
The breeder must choose parents likely to pass on a healthy genetic line. The results of genetic tests may alert breeders to a disease predisposition in a dog’s lineage. According to experts, over 900 different hereditary diseases have been discovered in dogs. It keeps track of available tests in a database that may be browsed according to breed or medical issue.
Generally, breed groups will state which genetic testing is suggested for a certain breed. There are a lot of benefits to understanding exactly what your pet is made of, even though genetic testing for pets has a lot of limits.
How reliable are DNA tests for pets?
Many companies that provide DNA testing kits say their products have an accuracy rate of 90% or higher. However, some veterinarians and genetics specialists need to be convinced. This is mainly because there is a need for more reliable scientific studies to evaluate the methods utilized in these kits.
Anecdotal evidence shows that many animal parents think DNA kits are typically accurate. Some highlight the kits’ capability of recognizing characteristics that pet owners can validate, such as hair type and, in some instances, breed.
Discover Your Pet’s Roots
It is important to keep in mind that the field of animal genetic screening is a fresh one that is still developing. Many factors are still being studied about how the unique genetic makeup of each pet influences its growth and susceptibility to diseases. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your pet, consult your trusted veterinary clinics.