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Canine experts launch ‘revolutionary’ DNA test
DNA
“This holds great promise for taking science outside the lab, to make discoveries that impact animal, and likely human, health.”
Tracks over 200,000 genetic markers

A canine DNA test, designed to be the most comprehensive pet genetic test on the market, is set to ‘revolutionise’ the genetic testing market.

Developed by leading experts in dog and consumer genetics, the Embark Dog DNA Test tracks over 200,000 genetic markers, giving an extensive overview of both genetic disease risk and heritable traits.

It is hoped the information will help dog owners understand their pet’s health, plan for its future and provide the best possible personalised care.

Embark founders Adam and Ryan Boyko will describe their test at a South by SouthWest panel titled “Can Your Dog’s DNA Transform Human Health and Ageing?” on Tuesday, March 15.

“As lifelong partners in pet health, we started Embark to develop platforms that allow pet owners to become involved in genetic research and to provide the breakthroughs from that research right back to those owners,” said CEO Ryan Boyko.

“This holds great promise for taking science outside the lab, to make discoveries that impact animal, and likely human, health.”

“Dogs were the first domesticated animal species, and have lived and worked alongside humans for over 15,000 years,” added Dr. Adam Boyko, chief science officer and assistant professor of biomedical sciences at the Cornell veterinary college.

“Our canine friends are diagnosed with many of the same diseases as people and share our homes and environment. That makes them a particularly valuable model species for understanding cancer, immune disorders, behaviour and ageing.”

Customers who join the waiting list at www.embarkvet.com will be among the first to buy the test when it becomes available next month.  

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NOAH board elected

News Story 1
 NOAH has elected its board team, as part of its annual general meeting.

Ned Flaxman, general manager at Norbrook Laboratories Ltd, retains his position as chair, which he has held since June 2023.

Caitrina Oakes (Vetoquinol) remains past chair, and Matthew Frost (Elanco) remains treasurer.

Andrew Buglass (Eco Animal Health Ltd), Oya Canbas (Zoetis) and Charlotte Covell (Virbac) are newly elected vice-chairs. Meanwhile Roy Geary (Ceva) and John Toole (Beaphar) join the NOAH Board of Management.

Dawn Howard, NOAH chief executive, said: "I congratulate all the officers and board members who have been elected or re-elected today.

"I look forward to working together to ensure that NOAH continues to deliver at the highest standard for its members." 

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News Shorts
Series two of SCOPS podcast launched

The Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) Group has launched the second series of its podcast.

The series will comprise four episodes, with topics including the sustainable use of parasite treatments, effective quarantining, administrating a mid/late season dose, and tackling resistance to multiple groups of anthelmintic.

Kevin Harrison, Gloucestershire sheep farmer and SCOPS chair, said: "The podcast is suitable for sheep farmers, vets and advisers, so please subscribe and spread the word if you enjoy the content.

"All episodes from series one are still available online, as well as the new episodes being added."

The podcast is available on the SCOPS website and other podcast platforms.