What is genetic testing?
Genetic or DNA testing is a simple way you can learn more about your pet. There is a lot of information within an individual’s genetic code (DNA). Genetic testing involves running a sample of your pet’s cells through a number of tests that provide information about your pet’s genetic makeup.
Genetic testing has been used in pets for over 20 years and, with technological advances, it is now easy, convenient, and affordable. In fact, the cost is often on par with standard blood profiles, so it is becoming a common test for early detection and prevention of disease.
How can genetic testing help my pet?
Genetic condition predispositions: If your pet is a mixed breed, genetic testing can identify the breeds that contribute to the mix. Many breeds are prone to certain conditions, so knowing the breed can help determine the risk of certain conditions. Even if tests for specific genetic conditions are not available, screening with other types of early-detection tests can promote better preventive care and lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of conditions.
Physical and personality traits: Every purebred has certain established physical and personality traits that provide owners with an idea of the type of pet they are getting. Knowing the breeds in a mix can help you make better guesses about the size, temperament, energy levels, and exercise requirements your pet may have.
Diet and wellness plans: Knowing your pet’s breed mix and potential condition predispositions can help you develop a more tailored diet, wellness, and preventive care plan for your pet.
Will genetic testing hurt my pet?
No, genetic testing will not hurt your pet. To run a genetic test, all that is needed from your pet are some cells. The easiest way to collect these cells is to rub a small, sterile nylon brush along the inside of your pet’s cheek to collect epithelial cells from the area. You or your veterinarian can collect this sample. The sample is then submitted to a laboratory for DNA analysis.
Some veterinarians prefer to submit a blood sample to ensure that large amounts of DNA are present. During blood collection, the needle prick may upset your pet for a moment, but the overall process will not hurt them.
Many genetic testing companies encourage pet owners to order collection kits online, perform the collection at home, and send the sample back to the lab in a mailer. The pet owner will receive a report, either by mail or email, with a full explanation of the results.
What genetic tests are performed?
At the laboratory, several tests can be run, either individually or as part of a profile, including:
- DNA mixed-breed ancestry profile: This test can help determine which breeds are included in your pet’s mix.
- Full genetic attribute profile: This test can be run on purebred, hybrid, and mixed-breed pets. It provides the most valuable information, testing for dozens of medical conditions, as well as for certain traits.
- Specific breed profile: This test evaluates only for conditions common in a specific breed.
- Individual genetic tests: These tests are conducted when there is concern about a single medical issue.
With new technologies, it is as inexpensive to run a complete profile with dozens of tests as it is to run a handful of tests common in a specific breed. In almost all cases, it makes more sense to run the complete profile rather than try to predict which tests might be most relevant. With the genetic test results available, a diagnosis can be made and treatment or preventive measures can be started before a pet even becomes ill.
