Animal DNA Test Benefits
DNA testing for animals has been used for years in laboratory experiments and research. However, since 2007 it has been possible for individuals to use this test to determine characteristics such as the ancestry, health, genetic traits and other information regarding their animal.
Animal DNA information is used to:
• Determine breed heritage
• Confirm identity of a parent
• Screen for health problems
• Identify sire in artificial insemination
• Categorize imported breeding animals
DNA test results have three categories:
• Primary- identifies 50 percent or greater of popular breeds.
• Secondary- identifies one or more breeds that affect the
animal’s makeup.
• Mixed- identifies genetic results. These may be mixed but some identification will be provided.
A genetic disease, if one is present in the animal, will be revealed by DNA testing. It will also provide information regarding its genetic disposition.
This test can be done by a blood sample or a simple swab of saliva from the animal’s mouth. The most popular animals for a DNA test are horses, dogs, cats and birds.
Testing for horses can determine the genetics of coat color and pattern. For example, every horse that tests has two basic colors, black and red. If the DNA test reveals two black alleles it will never produce a red descendant.
The DNA testing for dogs will, as with other animals, identify the parents, grandparents and great grandparents as well as its health. This test can be conducted on purebreds, designer breeds or mixed breeds.
If you have a bird, it is possible to have Avian DNA Gender Determination test, which will tell you its sex. This is done using either a blood card or feathers. A blood card is made by clipping the bird’s toenail to produce blood. Other conditions can also be identified.
Cats can have a DNA test at any age, which will provide proof of parentage. In addition, it is an excellent method for determining the authenticity of pedigrees and for identifying any disease that is present in the cat’s system.
Pros of DNA Testing:
• Samples are easy to obtain
• DNA results are usually mailed within 10 days
• Easy to determine parentage
• Easy to identify health problems
• Helps you understand your animal’s behavior
Cons of DNA Testing:
• Only certain breeds are identifiable
• Some owners have a hard time believing the results because of pre-determined expectations
Costs of DNA testing vary according to which company is involved. Among those offered are $38.00 and up per horse, $19.00 to $21.00 per bird, $20.00 to $70 per dog and $48.00 to $85.00 per cat. With the wide number of animal DNA test offerings online, it will pay you to shop around.
There are a number of favorable reviews by people who have used DNA testing for their animals. The following was sent to Amazon.
“So enlightening and a really great value. Now that I know her background, I see a different dog… So enlightening…” R&B Gibson
“As far as the process and such, it couldn’t have been easier! Cheek swab when the dog has been away from others… and send it in. Keep the little code you’re given in your packet, and check the results online.” T. M. Lord