Canine Genetic Testing (CAGT) is a veterinary DNA testing lab based in the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Cambridge. It is one of the services offered by The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital. We offer a range of DNA tests for painful, blinding or otherwise debilitating inherited canine disorders.
The CAGT team is passionate about providing high-quality customer service to offer accurate, breed-relevant, validated DNA tests that can be used to reduce the incidence of disease in breeds at risk. CAGT is uniquely positioned to offer DNA tests that are based on findings from completed research undertaken by the Canine Genetics Centre (CGC) and others within the Department of Veterinary Medicine. Tests can be offered prior to their publication, and are accompanied by bespoke, breed-tailored advice based on specific research findings. This opportunity enables affected breeds to begin to test for and select against disease variants in the shortest timeframe possible, and consequently begin to reduce disease incidence with immediate effect.
The Canine Genetics Centre (CGC) is headed by Dr Cathryn Mellersh and is also based in the Department of Veterinary Medicine. CGC works with breed stakeholders to investigate the genetic basis of inherited diseases in dogs, identify genetic variants that underpin these diseases and develop tools with which to improve the health and welfare of generations of dogs.
Samples sent to CAGT for DNA testing are retained and are easily accessible to canine genetics researchers and their collaborators for research purposes.
CAGT works closely with CGC and 100% of CAGT profits are reinvested in the CGC and their research.
CAGT is a participant in the International Partnership for Dogs (IPFD) Harmonization of Genetic Testing for Dogs (HGTD) initiative. The goal of HGTD is to “Improve standardization of, and access to, robust genetic testing to support health improvements and a sustainable future for healthy dogs. The portal for information on Genetic Testing Providers (labs); genetic tests, and tests by breed. There are two major components: the Quality Testing Database and Genetic Counselling resources.”
