NEW DOGGIE DNA TEST ANSWERS "WHAT'S MY DOG?"
Mars Veterinary™ Launches the Most Comprehensive DNA-Based Mixed Breed Test for Dogs
ROCKVILLE, Md (October 3, 2007) – Since rescuing her mixed breed dog Sol three years ago, Becky Shelton, like millions of other dog owners, often wondered what breeds make up her mystery dog’s background. Beyond satisfying her curiosity, Shelton wanted to find what potential issues may affect Sol throughout his life. But it wasn't until Shelton's veterinarian, Dr. Marty Becker, invited her to be among the first ever to use the science of canine genetic testing through the Wisdom Panel™ MX Mixed Breed Analysis, that she finally learned Sol's real genetic identity.
Now this same technology is available nationwide to the millions of mixed breed dog owners eager to learn the breed makeup of their beloved pets. Mars Veterinary™, a division of MARS® Incorporated – a world leader in pet care – has just launched Wisdom Panel™ MX Mixed Breed Analysis, the most comprehensive DNA-based mixed breed test for dogs and is rolling out in veterinary clinics and hospitals starting today. The test can detect more than 130 breeds that may be present in a mixed breed dog, covering 99 percent of American Kennel Club (AKC) registered dogs, and is the only test of this type being offered exclusively through veterinarians.
"As a practicing veterinarian who sees so many mixed breed dogs and the owner of one myself, I know all too well the challenges of not knowing a dog's breed composition," says Dr. Marty Becker, nationally renowned pet expert, author, professor and practicing veterinarian. "Understanding the makeup of mutts opens new windows for both veterinarians and dog owners to better understand their pets, why dogs display certain behavioral characteristics, and what kind of wellness or activity plans best suit an individual dog."
Taking the Mystery Out of Mixed Breed Dogs
With roughly half of all dogs in the United States being mixed breed and the bulk of owners (86 percent)1 unsure of their pet's breed composition, this revolutionary test eliminates the guessing game – and six out of 10 mixed breed dog owners feel that having this knowledge would help them understand their dogs in ways that may improve their relationships with their pets. Since the Wisdom Panel™ MX Mixed Breed Analysis is available exclusively through veterinarians, dog owners can work together with their vets who can help interpret the test data and tailor care and wellness plans for their companions based on their test results.
For example, prior to taking the Wisdom Panel™ MX Mixed Breed Analysis, Becky Shelton had assumed her mixed breed dog Sol was a Jack Russell Terrier and German Shepherd mix. His test results reveal he is in fact a Norfolk Terrier, German Shepherd Dog and Dachshund mix. "I was certainly curious about Sol's breed background but found it even more compelling to understand how his breed mix may help my vet and me look after him better," says Shelton.
The Science Behind the Doggie DNA Test
The state-of-the-art Wisdom Panel™ MX Mixed Breed Analysis is based on years of extensive research, drawing from the expertise of leading scientists, veterinarians, universities and breed organizations throughout the world. Its development included the analysis of more than 19 million DNA markers from more than 13,000 dogs. As a result, the test is the most complete and comprehensive product on the market, able to detect the breed composition of a dog with an average accuracy of 84 percent2.
"The new Wisdom Panel™ MX Mixed Breed Analysis marks a major milestone in canine genetic science by applying the results of proprietary genetic research to help identify the origins of physical and behavioral traits," says Peter Markwell, veterinarian and Chief Science Officer at Mars Veterinary. "This test is the first in an anticipated line of Wisdom Panel™ tests that will provide insight into canine genetic science and ultimately, help strengthen the pet-owner bond."
How Wisdom Panel™ MX Works
In order to be able to detect the more than 130 AKC-recognized breeds, an adequate quantity of high-quality DNA is required. DNA of this quality and quantity can only be obtained from a small blood sample, which can easily be collected during a routine veterinary visit.
Within two to three weeks following the test, Mars Veterinary will provide owners and veterinarians with a customized, comprehensive report that includes the dog's breed analysis and detailed information on the appearance and potential behavioral characteristics of detected breeds. The veterinarian and owner can then create tailored care and wellness plans covering important factors such as nutrition, exercise and training needs.
"There's no bond like the one between a dog and his owner. Now families can get even more involved in providing the best care for their best friend," says Becker
The test will be available exclusively through veterinary clinics and hospitals nationwide. To find out more information, log onto www.whatsmydog.com or ask your family veterinarian.
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1 This research project was conducted online in order to assess mixed breed dog owners' knowledge of their dogs' makeup. A total of 711 mixed breed dog owners completed the survey. All participants were members of the Zoom Panel - which has been selected to match US consumer demographics. Research was conducted in June 2007.
2 Wisdom Panel™ MX is used to help determine the breed makeup of a dog. Validation testing has resulted in an average accuracy* of 84 percent in first-generation crossbred dogs of known parentage. The breeds in this validation study represent 45 percent of AKC registrations. Wisdom Panel™ MX is not intended to predict disease or behavior in any particular dog.
*Accuracy was determined by average positive predictive value across breeds studied
About Mars Veterinary™
Mars Veterinary™ is the one of the newest division of MARS® Incorporated, a company known for innovative consumer and pet food brands that are trusted by people around the world.
Mars Veterinary™ is developing sophisticated genetic tests that allow pet owners, veterinarians and care providers to gain insight into the genetic make up of their individual dog. It is reaching new frontiers in canine genomic science, discovering important genetic markers that will help identify breed mixes. These major scientific advances will allow veterinarians and owners to care for dogs with unprecedented wisdom. Through research into pet genetics, Mars Veterinary™ is dedicated to revolutionizing personalized pet care by strengthening the bond between people and their canine companions.
About Mars® Incorporated
MARS®, Incorporated, is a privately-held family owned company that produces some of the world's leading confectionery, food, petcare, beverage, and health & nutrition products, and operates in more than 65 countries. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Mars, Incorporated employs more than 9,000 associates in the United States and 40,000 associates worldwide with 52 sites nationally and more than 100 manufacturing facilities globally. The company's global sales exceed $21 billion annually.