K9 Genetics Corporation, based in Orange County, CA, announced that they're now accepting a limited number of pre-orders for what they're billing as the "World's first completely personalized diets for dogs".

The way it works is that you submit a sample of your dog's DNA, and a questionnaire asking you about your dog's breed, age, and weight, and K9 Genetics will run an analysis on the two to figure out the exact diet your dog should be on.

The idea is to identify potential diseases your dog is susceptible to, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and then come up with a meal that doesn't wake these monsters from their sleep.

They've gone on to establish this as a new science called, "Nutrigenomics".

I'm curious to know how much of the diet plan is based on the DNA itself, versus the questionnaire you provide. DNA is just so "sexy" these days, that people seem to be forking over all kinds of money to take advantage of a variety of services. Obviously, there is a market for this kind of stuff.

K9 Genetics is only accepting reservations for 1,000 personalized diets at this time. So, you better take advantage now. I mean, you don't want to be on the outside looking in, right?

Visit K9 Genetics online at...
http://www.K9Genetics.com

Labels: DNA Testing, Dog Food

A new DNA testing kit that screens pets for dozens of inherited diseases is now available from a company called, PinPoint DNA Technologies, Inc.

Pawsitive I.D. identifies more than two dozen hereditary diseases, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Von Willebrand Disease.

The at-home test also reveals a pet's DNA fingerprint, a unique genetic code that never changes, giving owners a permanent and positive form of identification.

The Pawsitive I.D. kit contains a profile form with customer ID number and sterile cheek swabs. Owners simply fill out the profile, and rub the swab against the inside of their pet's cheek for about 10 seconds, then mail it out with the included postage paid envelope.

Pawsitive ID uses a complex system of DNA Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (pronounced SNiPs) to test for your pet's susceptibility to certain genetic diseases. The cheek samples are examined by lab professionals who analyze selected regions of the chromosomes in the DNA. Within the regions, scientists can identify an individual within a species and compare the genotypes to identify the potential for genetic disorders.

In about two weeks you get the results back. It contains a certificate with DNA disease and trait screening information as well as fingerprint data. An interpretive guide explains the results and what action should be taken if a positive or carrier results is listed.

Pawsitive I.D. keeps a duplicate certificate for up to 15 years, in a secure database, for owners in case their pet becomes lost or legal ownership needs to be proven.

"If a genetic disorder is identified early it could provide effective cost savings for veterinary treatments and save the pet's life," says Rick Dobbins, CEO of PinPoint DNA Technologies, Inc.

The kit retails for $49.95. Bulk pricing is available for breeders.

For more information, visit Petgadgets.com...
http://www.petgadgets.com

Labels: DNA Testing

What to know what breeds of dog your mixed-breed is?

DNA testing can find out.

There are a couple of laboratories that'll analyze saliva from your dog and can ascertain from what breeds he or she is descended from. And it looks pretty cheap, about $65.00.

My dog Max is a mutt that no one seems to know what he is. I could probably make use of this.

These labs have assembled DNA maps from several AKC breeds. By analyzing your dog's DNA, they can tell you if he's part beagle, or part dachshund, or part golden retriever, or who knows what.

Links...

Mars Veterinary: http://www.whatsmydog.com/
Metamorphix: http://www.metamorphixinc.com/

Labels: DNA Testing