When DNA Testing Is Done On Pets

The study of DNA is most often linked to humans; however this type of technology can be used on animals as well. There are a few companies that concentrate on DNA testing on animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and horses. These tests can help to positively ID an animal, help to predict the likelihood of genetic traits or disease, and assist in determining lineage.

Collecting a DNA sample from your pet is the best form of identification you can have. Since no two creatures are like, each animal will have a different genetic code and structure, thereby giving it a set of individual DNA markers. If your pet is lost or stolen, they can be identified quickly through testing and comparing the results to a databank. Often a blood sample is not needed to collect a sufficient DNA sample; all that is needed is some saliva.

Among other things, DNA testing can also be used to determine lineage, which may be in doubt. This is a very valuable tool for anyone attempting to determine pedigrees. DNA can be used to trace animal blood lines accurately. Testing one of the parents or using DNA samples on file can also help to identify a lost or stolen pet.

This type of testing is also very useful in the risk assessment or detection of certain diseases or genetic traits. Many species are vulnerable against different illnesses due to centuries of selective breeding. Breeders can help to reverse some of the ill effects of improper breeding by keeping accurate records of the lineage. This can help breeders to make better breeding decisions. This can also be used to forecast changes in the animal’s appearance and behavior as it ages.

Administering a DNA test on an animal is often quite cheap, usually $50 dollars or less, in comparison with human DNA tests which are usually more than $100 dollars. There are usually different tests for lineage, hereditary conditions and disease, and inherited traits.

Since there is not the demand for respect of privacy as there is with humans, there are fewer objections to DNA profiling using animals. However, all companies are subject to rules and regulations similar to that of a veterinarian.

While the thought of DNA testing is most often linked to humans, it can also be performed on animals. Animals such as: dogs, cats, birds, and horses can all be identified by DNA. DNA testing can help to identify a lost or stolen pet, predict the likelihood of genetic traits or diseases, and assist in determining your pet’s lineage. Testing is simple and often painless. Usually only a saliva sample is needed to do the testing.