AWA offering breed testing
The following information was submitted by the Animal Welfare Association.
Jerry Springer isn’t at the Animal Welfare Association doing paternity testing, but with Father’s Day approaching, many mixed breed dogs (and their owners) wonder who their daddies are. In the past, a mutt’s heritage was a matter of guesswork and conjecture, but DNA testing is available at AWA and gives more precise information.
Owners of mixed-breed dogs can learn their pet’s breed history through a blood test or a do-it-yourself saliva test available at AWA. A dog’s breeding helps explain a lot about certain behaviors, personality traits and even health conditions. To celebrate Father’s Day, AWA ran a contest to guess the DNA-lineage of an AWA shelter dog. The results are in and it turns out he comes from a White Swiss Shepard, an American Foxhound and a Finnish Spitz.
“Breed history can help dog owners create a tailored care program that will target training, be aware of special veterinary needs, and do nutritional planning and plan exercise activities that can make their dog happier and healthier”, said Judi Russo, AWA’s Clinic Manager.
“This is the perfect gift this Father’s Day for the dads who are dog-lovers,” said executive director, Maya Richmond, “It sends a double message of love because it gives dog owners the opportunity to learn more about their dogs, while a few dollars from each sale goes toward helping provide life-saving services for AWA’s shelter pets.”
The cost for a saliva test is $75 and $125 for a blood test. Contact the AWA clinic at 424–2288, ext. 105 or info@awanj.org for more information on testing your dog.
