If you’re a rescue dog’s proud owner, then chances are you’ve already been told your pet is some wacky-sounding hyphenate. A mix-breed? Or you might get zero ideas the breeds make up your lovable mutt. Although a doggy DNA test may address that question, the latest models do more than satisfy your curiosity — they can also scan your pet for genetic disorders like heart and kidney disease, skin ailments, and eye problems such as glaucoma. Tests for over 160 diseases are one of the most extensive deals out there. Knowing the findings and opting for a dog subscription box will potentially help you look after your dog better and save you money in the long run.
A Simple and Quicker Diagnosis
While pointing out that a genetic DNA test does not diagnose a specific disease is significant, it can help guide your veterinarian when treating your dog. For example, suppose your veterinarian knows that your dog is at risk for an enlarged heart (or dilated cardiomyopathy). In that case, they will be on the lookout for the condition as soon as signs occur on your pet. The purpose is to minimise excessive testing and the amount of time it takes for a vet to make a good diagnosis.
Reducing risk
DNA tests will give you the details you need to determine your dog’s risk of contracting a specific disease or disorder. In some instances, the conditions are essentially called entirely penetrant, meaning that the disease can evolve in any dog with the risk factor. Even there are other things that you can do to delay the onset and mitigate the symptoms of these diseases. For instance, if your dog has the genetic mutation associated with polycystic kidney disease (or PKD), you might want to speak to your veterinarian about transitioning to a lower protein diet that may help protect the kidney. Similarly, if you know that your dog is affected by a blood-clotting disease, you and your doctor should track it and take the appropriate measures during routine visits.
More Healthier & Balanced Predictions
The notion that the equivalent of a single dog year is seven human years does not hold. Different breed age at different rates, and while the size of a dog can give you some insight into your pet, it doesn’t tell the whole story. You can discover the “genetic age” of your pet with such a tool. This manner can help you, and your doctor figures out when to do some age-related health tests and suggest how you may want to change your dog’s diet. For example, senior dogs can turn to a lower-calorie, higher-fiber diet to stave off obesity and enhance gastrointestinal health.
