Canine Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a devastating degenerative disease of the spinal cord that can progress rapidly and cause weakness in the hind limbs and eventually paraplegia among genotypically affected dogs. This test, which uses the SOD1-A marker, can be carried out on all breeds. Initially, this inherited recessive disorder was thought to only affect German Shepherd Dogs however, degenerative myelopathy has been recently diagnosed in several other dog breeds. Please note: We do not test for the SOD1-B marker found in Bernese Mountain Dogs. The DNA test is an accurate, convenient, and affordable tool to help breeders avoid producing DM at risk offspring and significantly reduce the gene frequency in future generations. The results confirm 1 of the 3 possible genotypes for the tested dog: CLEAR (those having 2 copies of the normal allele and appear to be normal). CARRIER (those having 1 copy of the normal allele and 1 copy of the mutation and most appear to be normal). AT RISK (those having 2 copies of the mutation and will likely show clinical signs). INGREDIENTS The DNA Sample Collection Kit Contains - 4 x sterile mouth swabs (all 4 for 1 dog), step-by-step sample collection instructions, registration form and return envelope. DIRECTIONS Hold the dog's head firmly against your body with one hand. With the other hand, insert the swab into the dog's mouth and place it against the inside surface of the cheek. Firmly rub the swab against the inside of the cheek, rotating the swab for about ten seconds. The objective is to collect loose cheek cells, NOT saliva. Please contact us with any questions. LEGAL DISCLAIMER The test identifies whether the tested dog has inherited the mutated SOD1 gene responsible for DM and reports one of three possible outcomes – Clear, Carrier or At Risk. It is not an ancestry test, breed test or parentage test. It is for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) only. Please note: We do not test for the SOD1-B marker found in Bernese Mountain Dogs. See more

ABOUT US: AffinityDNA is an industry-leading DNA Testing company with more than 15 years' experience in the DNA business established partnerships with some of the most highly accredited DNA testing laboratories in the world. COMPLETE TESTING KIT: The DNA Sample Collection Kit contains 4 x sterile mouth swabs (all 4 for 1 dog), step-by-step sample collection instructions, registration form return envelope. Please note: we do not test for the SOD1-B marker found in Bernese Mountain Dogs. SIMPLE EASY SAMPLE COLLECTION PROCESS: Samples can be collected simply painlessly using the supplied cheek swabs. Results issued by email 7 working days after receipt of samples. HEALTH TEST FOR YOUR PET: The test identifies whether the tested dog has inherited the mutated SOD1-A gene reports one of three possible outcomes – Clear, Carrier or At Risk. This test is available for all breeds. DEGENERATIVE MYELOPATHY (DM) DNA TEST: It is an accurate, convenient, affordable tool to help breeders avoid producing DM at risk offspring significantly reduce the gene frequency in future generations (NOT A BREED TEST).