Everyone has a unique story to tell. Thanks to modern technology, people around the world have been successful in solving the mystery of their family lineage. Shouldn’t the same advantage be available to species of the four-legged kind? The scientists at Mars Veterinary, located in Gaithersburg, MD, have created the gold standard in mixed-breed genetic identification for canines. However, the underlying question remains: what information can the WISDOM Panel MX test obtain that is so valuable to the owner of a mixed-breed dog, and moreover, could you handle what you might find out?
Launched in 20007, WISDOM Panel MX is available for purchase through veterinarian clinics, pet retailers, and online. This test requires a small blood sample that can be taken during a routine veterinary check-up and yields accuracy results at an average of 90%. The inexpensive assessment is used to analyze DNA in order to identify up to 157 breeds present in a dog; provide vital information regarding breed-based physical and behavioral traits; and present an opportunity for each owner and veterinarian to work together to research and implement the best quality care for a mixed-breed dog.
Dogs are just as susceptible to illness or genetic disorder as humans. Canine health problems ranging from mild to severe may arise at any stage of life, so it’s valuable to know what your dog is genetically inclined to. Some of the more common canine genetic diseases and conditions include: Cancer, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia; Hereditary Epilepsy; Hypothyroidism; Congenital Heart Anomalies; Atopic and Allergic Skin Disease; and Gastric Dilation. Without the WISDOM Panel MX test, such life-altering maladies may not be caught until it’s too late.
When adopting a dog, research is required to decide which breed is best suited for your family’s lifestyle. Common behavior problems include chewing, begging, jumping, biting, and barking. While some of these behaviors can be handled easily with patience, understanding, and proper obedience training, there are some dogs that always will be prone to conduct incompatible with specific home environments. With this test, an owner can anticipate a possible challenge and address it appropriately.
The WISDOM Panel MX test has ignited the search towards a comprehensive genomic study of canines unparalleled by any attempt of its kind. While the choice is yours to make, the financial investment is minimal and there really is no hurting in trying. Speaking from personal experience as the owner of a shelter dog, I certainly wish I’d known about the test during the adoption process. Not that my audacious one-year-old Lab/Chow mix wouldn’t have come home with me, but several pairs of expensive shoes and my favorite couch cushions could have used fair warning.
For more information visit: marsveterinary.com.
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