Pet DNA Testing On The Rise

Pet DNA Testing

DNA testing in humans has developed significantly in recent years. This is clearly seen regarding the services provided, the data achieved and the number of people tested. DNA tests have medical benefits for screening illness and also provide valuable information on heritage add other factors.

DNA testing in humans is so common and easy to use that anyone can apply for a home kit. Attention is now behind to drift as companies look into other markets. Now it seems that many people are also taking advantage of pet DNA testing services.

DNA Testing For Dogs To Help With Medical Diagnosis And Linkage Issues

The first canine test came about in Austin, Texas. The idea here is that pet owners can screen for genetic problems and illness indicators. It essentially works just as it would with their DNA. This can be a vital lifeline for pets with a poor medical history or distinct traits in the breed DNA. Spotting the signs early through pet DNA testing could help to ensure preventative measures that lessen the risk or impact in later life.

The test has an impressive 200,000-marker genotyping array and works in a similar way to human swabs. Users collect a sample of saliva – or drool in this case – and send it for analysis. The testing can also be helpful for owners of mixed-breed pups who are unaware precisely what the parent breeds were.

This could be a problem with a cute looking pup at a shelter. Owners may be saving a life, but have little idea what they are getting into regarding size, temperament, and other issues.

DNA Testing For Dogs To Catch Negligent Owners In The Act

Then there is pet DNA testing for less noble reasons – testing kits on dog feces to identify who left the mess. This is the new strategy in use by people in Seattle fed up of dog owners not cleaning up after their pets.

It has become quite the crusade in apartment complexes where dog owners have little respect for other tenants. Mess left on the street is one thing. Mess left in carpeted halls and elevators is something else. The DNA is sent off for analysis, the breed is identified, and residents can pin down the culprit.

Naming and shaming, and a condo board fine or two, seems to do the job. The problem has decreased in some places. Also, this is not the only city to do so, like Miami, Dallas and L.A are getting involved too.

Can This Market For Pet DNA Tests Continue To Grow?

It is no surprise that consumers are willing to pay out for either of these interesting DNA tests. No price is too high when it comes to the health of our pets. Also, $50 to test dog feces is nothing for a clean, hygiene apartment building.

This is surely just the start of what pet DNA testing can do, especially with the genetic screening and health implications. With time, the services will spread, and the benefits will increase.