Unlock the Genetic Secrets of Your Paint Horse: Health, Color, and Performance DNA Panel

PHJ release

APHA.com

Etalon comprehensive genetic panel now in beta testing

Etalon’s comprehensive DNA Minipanel is now available to APHA members at apha.com.

Etalon Diagnostics’ comprehensive DNA Minipanel is now available to APHA members via apha.com/breed/geneticeq. This exciting partnership between APHA and Etalon Diagnostics is specifically designed to accelerate research and improve the overall health, integrity and unique beauty of the Paint breed. During this introductory launch, the new interface will in a beta testing phase (currently offered on a limited basis); APHA encourages your participation and feedback.

Put genetics on your side when it comes to raising, training and breeding Paint Horses with a test that provides a detailed and comprehensive profile of a horse’s genetic makeup.

A thorough assessment of a horse’s predispositions once required multiple tests from different vendors, and piecing together a useful profile was time-consuming and expensive. Available now through the APHA website, Etalon’s comprehensive panel provides results on more than 40 traits—including disease markers, color and pattern characteristics, abilities and performance qualities—for a single, affordable package price.

“We’re a strongly research-focused company,” Etalon CEO Christa Lafayette said. “We believe the key to unlocking genetic secrets within the horse lies in the hands of the people who know their horses best: owners, riders and trainers. Together, through a collaboration of science and industry insight, will we achieve the acceleration of genetic discovery we so want for our horses. All of this input and effort will work toward improving the lives of our  horses .

The DNA Minipanel test is simple, requiring only hair pulled from the horse’s mane or tail. After purchasing the test through APHA, the sample is mailed by the owner to Etalon Diagnostics. After the laboratory analysis is complete, results are provided by email within about two weeks, including detailed explanations of each result and links to reference material for further understanding.

“Our partnership with Etalon offers yet another choice in the quest for greater understanding about our horses,” APHA Executive Director Billy Smith said. “We encourage owners to take advantage of this service to gain greater insight into their Paint partners, make more informed horse management decisions and preserve the unique qualities of the Paint Horse breed.”

“Our service makes it easier to know a horse inside and out,” Christa said. “The better we understand our horses, the more capable we’ll be of protecting their health, making them successful in their disciplines and preserving their unique beauty. We’re proud to sponsor APHA, and we look forward to working together to serve these magnificent animals and the people who love them.”

Watch apha.com for more information and updates about Etalon genetic testing, available now at apha.com/breed/geneticeq.