A big thanks to Mars Veterinary Wisdom Panel 3.0 for sponsoring this conversation!
I’m an animal lover. My husband and I currently have 3 dogs and a cat. Our house is a bit crazy at times since there are so many animal personalities but we are never bored, that’s for sure! Our oldest dog was a rescue pup from Operation Kindness. For those of you who aren’t familiar with Operation Kindness, it’s a nonprofit animal-welfare organization that cares for homeless or unwanted cats and dogs in a no-kill environment.
Suzi, my rescue pup, was adopted from Operation Kindness from a friend at college who was no longer able to take care of her since he was moving. I can’t resist sweet puppies, so I took her into my house. The only information I had about Suzi was that she was brought over from Hurricane Katrina. I have no idea what her breed is, how old she is, or what medical conditions she might have. It’s been a guessing game.
I recently learned that I can have Suzi’s DNA tested. Mars Veterinary, the industry leader in canine genetic testing, is launching their next evolution of the canine DNA test—Wisdom Panel® 3.0— and is not only expanding the breedscreening coverage, but the medical applications as well with the new MDR1 Genetic Mutation screening. How amazing is that?
Wisdom Panel® 3.0 covers 250+ breeds, types and varieties including all those recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and can be run for mixed-breed, designer, or purebred dogs. The beauty of knowing your dogs breed is what health conditions it can encounter in the future. My dog is healthy overall but has severe allergies and skin issues. I spent so much money when the problem first arose because I had no idea what was going on. I finally found a vet that explained it was part of her breed and that if I monitor it, she will be fine.
DNA testing is extremely easy. It can be done at home and consists of two swabs that you rub between the gum and the cheek for 15 seconds to collect skin cells for DNA extraction. Results take approximately 2-3 weeks from the time the test reaches the lab.
Mars Veterinary will be at the Amazing Pet Expo in Austin on August 1-2. Bring your dog and you can swab onsite at event for a discounted price of $39.99. For those wanting to take home a kit, they can be purchased for the discounted price of $49.99 (MSRP $84.99).
If you’re like me and want to know all about your dog, follow Wisdom Panel online!
Do you know your dog’s breed? What kind do you have?
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