Good response for pet testing

Pets at Home managing director David Herman launches the new dog DNA testing Pets at Home managing director David Herman launches the new dog DNA testing

By Kelly Yates
DOGS can now be DNA tested in Narre Warren.
The new trend for Casey dog owners has sparked a positive reaction from the community, according to Pets at Home managing director David Herman.
Dog owners have the opportunity to get their dog DNA tested to find out its true breed through a simple non-invasive saliva swab test at the Pets At Home store in Narre Warren.
The quick, safe, painless and non-invasive test uses a cotton swab to gather a sample of the dog’s saliva.
With the aim of promoting responsible pet ownership, the store has launched the initiative BITSA, Breed Identification Through Scientific Analysis.
Mr Herman told the News the benefits of conducting the BITSA test included identifying a dog’s breed and background, proving that a dog is a pure breed when certification papers are not available and identifying potential medical conditions specific to the breed.
The test will also allow dog owners to gain a better understanding of the behaviour and traits of their canine pets.
Pet owners will receive an official certificate detailing test results.
Mr Herman said results usually took a week to 10 days to come back to the store.
“There is definitely a need for this DNA testing,” he said.
“It’s not intended to make pet owners love their dogs more but is simply aimed at helping owners know more about their animals.”
Mr Herman said 10 month old Pearl recently had a DNA test, and as a result changes had been to her diet and grooming routines. For details please call Pets at Home in Narre Warren on 9704 3900.