Mars DNA Testing
The DNA testing done for the McNab Shepherd Registry is done by Wisdom Health (formerly Mars Veterinary). Wisdom Health has been conducting research in the field of canine genetics for more than a decade starting with the initial canine genomics project in 1999.
Today the technology at Wisdom Health powers some of the most comprehensive breed and genetic disease detection products on the market for vets, consumers at home, breeders and shelters.
Since the beginning, Wisdom Health has been devoted to advancing the science of companion animal genetics and helping owners understand the unique needs of their pets from the inside out.
Determination of Breed Ancestry
The process by which Wisdom Health determines the breed ancestry of an individual dog or an entire dog breed is a process called “genotyping.” Genotyping is conducted on a patented canine Illumina® Infinium® chip created specifically for Wisdom Health’s tests. The chips are processed and analyzed at GeneSeek Laboratories in Lincoln, Nebraska.
GeneSeek, a subsidiary of Neogen Corporation, is the world’s largest animal genomics testing facility, processing approximately 1.5 million samples a year from around the world. They are the most experienced laboratory in the world for canine DNA identification and their technology employs high-resolution DNA genotyping for identity and trait analysis in a variety of important agricultural plant and animal species. Geneseek is ISO 17025 certified, compliant with current AAHA guidelines and accredited by both A2LA and the USDA.
The McNab Shepherd Registry was fortunate to have had the opportunity to partner with Wisdom Health for the McNab Genetic Study. The Registry is also grateful to all the McNab owners and breeders who donated samples and made the study possible.