FAQs on Health Testing and Research
General Questions:
* Why should I test my dog? I’m not a breeder and don’t intend to use my dog(s) for breeding.
There is a 2-pronged response to this question. First of all, you may find out something that is interesting or helpful with respect to your dog. So far about 70% of dogs have a form of the liver enzyme, alanine aminotransferase, that is unable to show high levels. Since veterinarians often use the test results for that specific enzyme to evaluate liver function, it could be helpful to know that information. That way, if your vet is ever concerned about liver function in your dog, he/she will know to look at other things, in addition to alanine aminotransferase.
The second prong is a little easier – it helps us to understand the breed, as a whole. The more dogs that are tested the more information we have about how similar or dissimilar all those dogs are on a genetic level.
* Do I have to agree to share the results for my dog?
To access the discounted pricing, you have to agree to share the data from your dog. However, you do NOT have to agree to disclose your name or the name of your dog in the data file. If you have questions or concerns please contact us at BelgianShepherdHealthProject@gmail.com
* My dog is imported (or I am planning to collect his semen for freezing). Does this type of test replace the DNA profile that I have to file with the AKC (or other registry) for my dog?
No, unfortunately, that is a different kind of DNA profile, one that can be traced directly to your dog and his or her offspring.
* Do you only accept Embark results?
No, we can use results from other genetic tests. However, the process is a little more manual and we may have some questions for you along the way.
* Can you explain the genetics of coat and color in Belgians? I’m so confused!
Response: Coat and Color Genetics
* How can I get involved/volunteer?
Response: Contact us by email at BelgianShepherdHealthProject@gmail.com We’re a young group, so our needs are evolving rapidly. There will probably be lots of opportunities to get involved.
* I like your logo. Do you have any merchandise with it available for sale?
Response: We don’t yet, but if you have ideas, we’d love to talk.
Embark Related Questions:
* When I tried to activate my Embark test kit it asks me to set up my breeder profile, but I’m not a breeder. What should I do?
Response: To use the breeder kits, which are most appropriate for registered dogs, you do have to set yourself up as a breeder. But, that just means creating your profile. So, go ahead and follow the steps to create a profile as a breeder, even if you never plan to breed.
* How do I save/share the Embark results for my dog?
Response: Sharing Data
* How do I make the Embark health information public?
Response: Sharing Data
* Will my registry (AKC, or SCC or … ) accept the Embark results as official test results?
We don’t know the answer to that question for very many countries. In the USA, the OFA will accept these test results. The best we can tell people from outside of the USA is that you should check with your registry organization.
* In my country, the official registry requires that a veterinarian confirm the identity of my dog by scanning their chip and having the vet take the sample. Can I do that with the Embark test?
Yes, there is a special ID verification form for that.
* My dog is imported (or I am planning to collect his semen for freezing). Does this type of test replace the DNA profile that I have to file with the AKC (or other registry) for my dog?
No, unfortunately, that is a different kind of DNA profile, one that can be traced directly to your dog and his or her offspring.
* Do I have to take my dog to the vet to be tested? Is it a blood test?
No, the test does not require a blood draw or a visit to the vet. Though, your vet will probably help you with it, if you wish. You simply rub a swab around in the saliva between your dog’s cheek and gums for a few seconds. You can do the test from the comfort of your home. It’s very simple and everything that is required is sent to you in the kit from Embark.
* Where do I find the Embark swab number?
If you look at the Full Report for your dog, it is near the top of the 1st page, on the right. On older report layouts it was near the top of the second page. If you are viewing the report as a PDF it can also be found by using the search function (ctrl-F on Windows, command-F on Macs) and typing in “swab”.
The link for the full report can be found by logging into the Embark website, selecting your dog, then scrolling down to the bottom of the page to the Print or Download Results section.
