Attention Barrett Weimaraner owners:
Have you ever wondered how research studies enroll subjects or collect data points. Where do all of these dogs and samples come from?
One of the most common and easiest way, is for the researcher to obtain DNA samples directly from the OFA CHIC DNA Repository. The CHIC DNA Repository collects and stores canine DNA samples along with corresponding genealogic and phenotypic information to facilitate future research and testing aimed at reducing the incidence of inherited disease in dogs.
The purpose of the OFA CHIC DNA Repository is to:
- Facilitate more rapid research progress by expediting the sample collection process
- Provide researchers with optimized family groups needed for research
- Allow breeders to take advantage of future DNA-based disease tests as they become available
- Foster a team environment between breeders/owners and the research community, improving the likelihood of genetic discovery
To establish and maintain the DNA Repository, the OFA has partnered with the Veterinary Genetics Lab at the University of California–Davis and the Animal Molecular Genetics Lab at the University of Missouri.
Who supplies the CHIC DNA Repository with samples ?? YOU DO!!!!! DNA from any purebred dog can be banked in the OFA CHIC DNA Repository.
To participate in the DNA Repository, complete the application found on the DNA Repository webpage, or click here, and submit it to the OFA.
You will receive the appropriate swab and/or blood collection kit in the mail. The Health Survey portion can be completed online, printed, and mailed to the OFA with the DNA samples.
* The WCA strongly recommends submitting both a cheek swab sample and a blood sample for each dog.
Why is participation in this voluntary DNA Repository Database so important to the health and future of the Weimaraner?? Why should everyone take the time to submit samples for each one of their dogs AND keep their dogs’ health information up to date in the database ??
Here is a real life example as to how this DNA repository could have helped research Bloat in the Weimaraner…
Recently, a study titled Evaluating the Complex Genetic Basis of Bloat was conducted in 10 different breeds considered to be at high-risk for Bloat. One of the criteria for a breed to be included in the study was that samples from 5 different dogs needed to be obtained. When acquiring samples from a live dog are not possible, researchers will then look to the samples banked in the OFA CHIC DNA Repository.
Unfortunately for our breed, the researchers could NOT obtain samples from 5 Weimaraners. These samples could have been live, banked in the repository or in combination. By not having enough samples available in the OFA CHIC DNA Repository, the Weimaraner missed the opportunity to participate in life-saving breed specific research.
Only WE can preserve the Weimaraner for future generations, but we must ALL work together!!
For questions and information about the OFA CHIC DNA Repository, please contact ofa@offa.org or visit https://www.ofa.org/about/dna-repository
Debra Konkol, C.V.T., RLAT
WCA Health Committee Chair
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