This is a sponsored post on behalf of Wisdom Panel 3.0. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Our dogs are members of our families. They shower us with love, and bring us comfort and often a sense of protection. When it comes to caring for our canine companions, we often turn to the basics- check-ups, shots, and everyday love and care. Did you know, however, that you can take pet care a step further by finding out about their ancestry? Knowing more about the family history of your dog will provide you with important information regarding their breed, what you can expect as a pet owner, and give you helful information regarding caring for your dog in the future.

Did you know...

There are millions of mixed breed dog owners in the US, alone. Think about all of those different types of dogs, and their mixes, and owners left wondering about the history of their pet's family tree. Having access to their pet's history gives them the ability to understand their breed's make up, and enables them to have access to more targeted care, and in some cases, life saving information for their furry friend.

Mars Veterinary is an industry leader in canie genetic testing, and they are passionate about connecting dog owners with important information about their beloved pets. They are proudly launching a new evolution of the canine DNA test, which is Wisdom Panel 3.0. They are also expanding screening coverage and medical applications with their new MDR1 Genetic Mutation Screening.

What is MDR1?

MDR1 or Multi-Drug Resistance 1 is a genetic mutation found in some herding and

sighthound breeds, as well as many mixed-breed dogs. The MDR1 gene is responsible for 

production of a protein called P-glycoprotein. The P-glycoprotein molecule is a drug 

transport pump that plays an important role in limiting drug absorption and distribution 

(particularly to the brain) and enhancing the excretion/elimination of many drugs used in dogs.

Dogs with MDR1 mutation may have severe reactions to some common drugs, so it's very important to test mixed breeds, and some purebreds, and for their owners to share those results with their veterinarians, so they can be sure to provide the best possible care for the dog. For more information on breeds and drugs affected by the MDR1 mutation, please visit www.wisdompanel.com/MDR1_Disease_Screening.

About Wisdom Panel 3.0

Covers 250+ breeds, types and varieties including all those recognized by the

American Kennel Club (AKC) and can be run for mixed-breed, designer, or purebred dogs. 

o Provides ancestry information back to the great-grandparent level, MDR1 Genetic Mutation screening results, and a predicted weight profile.

o Can be done at home and consists of two swabs that the owner rubs between the 

gum and the cheek for 15 seconds to collect skin cells for DNA extraction.  

o Results take approximately 2-3 weeks from the time the test reaches the lab.

o Can be run for mixed-breed, purebred and designer dogs. The owner chooses at the time of kit activation.

Why should you have your dog tested? 

Some benefits include:

MDR1 Mutation testing for drug sensitivity

The ability to develop a training program that works with their natural instincts

(breeds) and a better understanding their behavior characteristics.

o Developing a nutrition plan for breed-specific needs and/or achieving/maintaining healthy weight.

o Assists in determining what the adult size of your dog might be.

o Understanding the breeds within your dog, in order to lookout for any breed-specific health concerns or common issues.

Included in the DNA Test-

Instructions for use

DNA Cheek swab, which is good for use on one dog

Drying insert for swabs

Pre-paid return envelope

Arizona residents can have their pets swabbed on December 5th!

Wisdom 3.0 will be at the Holiday Pet Festival in Scottsdale, AZ on December the 5th, and swabbing will be available. Customers can swab their dogs on site at the event, for a discounted price of $39.99. For anyone interested in a take-home kit, those can be purchased for $49.99 (suggested retail price is $84.99). For more information on this event, please visit http://holidaypetfestival.com/.

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