Inqaba Biotec ZooOmics

04/05/2026

If you own or breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers, L2HGA is a term you need to know. It sounds complicated, but it’s essentially a rare neurological disorder that affects a dog's brain and nervous system.

Dogs with L2HGA have a gene mutation that prevents them from breaking down a specific compound in their body. This leads to a buildup of acid that can cause distressing symptoms like seizures, tremors, muscle stiffness, and a lack of coordination.

Why Testing is Vital
🔬 It’s Invisible: L2HGA is "autosomal recessive," meaning a dog can carry the gene and look perfectly healthy, but still pass it on to their puppies.
🔬 Early Detection: Symptoms usually appear between 6 months and a year old. Testing helps you and your vet plan for supportive care as early as possible.
🔬 No Cure, but Better Care: While there is currently no cure, knowing your dog’s status allows you to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Responsible breeding starts with a simple DNA test from Inqaba Biotec ZooOmics. By testing, we ensure that future generations of Staffies are born "Clear" and ready for a life of zoomies and cuddles.

Get your Staffie’s health certificate today, from the link in the comments.
🌐 www.zooomics.co.za

25/04/2026

We all want that "Disney dog" dream. A healthy, happy companion who lives a long, vibrant life. But some health challenges aren't visible to the naked eye. That’s where responsible breeding and genetic testing come in.

Did you know that many genetic conditions only develop if both parent dogs carry the same recessive gene? A dog can be a perfectly healthy "carrier" and never show symptoms, but if they are paired with another carrier of that same gene, the puppies could face serious inherited health problems.

Why Genetic Testing Matters:

🚫 Not about Exclusion: It’s not about removing every dog from a breeding program. It’s about informed choices.

✅ Thoughtful Pairings: Responsible breeders use DNA results to ensure they don't match two carriers of the same condition.

📈 Future-Proofing: By avoiding these risky pairings, breeders are protecting the health of the puppies and strengthening the breed for generations to come.

When you see a breeder talk about genetic clearances, it’s a sign they are looking out for the "long game" of your future pet’s health. We provide the facts, so you can choose with confidence!

TELL US: When you were looking for your fur-baby, did you ask about health testing or genetic clearances? Let’s talk about what "Responsible" looks like in the comments! 👇🧡

The team at Inqaba Biotec ZooOmics is always ready to assist.

10/04/2026

NEW TEST ALERT - CDDY / CDPA / IVDD

🐶 Short legs in dogs may be cute—but they can be linked to important genetic conditions 🧬

Chondrodysplasia (CDPA) and Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) are caused by genetic insertions in the FGF4 gene, affecting bone and cartilage development.

📍 CDPA - Causes short-legged traits in breeds like Dachshunds, Corgis & Basset Hounds
📍 CDDY - Also causes short legs PLUS increases risk of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

⚠️ Why does CDDY matter? In affected dogs, the cushioning discs between the vertebrae calcify too early, making them:
• More prone to herniation
• Able to press on the spinal cord
• A cause of pain, inflammation & neurological issues

💡 NB! IVDD risk is influenced by multiple factors—genetics is just one piece of the puzzle.

🧪 Genetic testing helps identify at-risk dogs and supports responsible breeding decisions.

For more info contact us on ➡➡➡ [email protected].

25/03/2026

NEW TEST ALERT!

🧬 What causes Feline Congenital Hypothyroidism (TPO)?

This condition has been linked to specific genetic changes in the thyroid peroxidase (TPO) gene — a key gene involved in thyroid hormone production.
Researchers have identified two important mutations which alter the building blocks of the TPO protein.

⚠️ These small changes can disrupt normal thyroid function, leading to reduced hormone production and the clinical signs seen in affected cats.

🧪 Genetic testing can help identify carriers and affected animals, supporting informed breeding decisions and early diagnosis.

For more info contact us on ➡➡➡ [email protected].

04/02/2026

🚨 Do you know how to spot a fake genetic test report? 🧬🐾

Unfortunately, fake or altered genetic test certificates are sometimes used to mislead buyers. Knowing what to look for can help protect yourself and your animals.

Use these guidelines to assess certificates you receive from breeders:
1️⃣ Are all animal and owner details visible and clear?
2️⃣ Is the official watermark present?
3️⃣ Is the QR code unobstructed and does it scan correctly?
4️⃣ Are the laboratory’s contact details clearly displayed?

If you are ever unsure about a certificate’s authenticity, contact the laboratory directly. Reputable labs can quickly verify reports and results.

When in doubt — verify. Transparency protects breeders, buyers, and animals. 🐶🧬

28/01/2026

Genetic Testing is like a "superpower" for pet parents! 🦸‍♂️

We often think of DNA tests just for finding out a rescue pup's "breed mix", but science is using this data to save lives and protect the future of our favourite breeds.

💡 Did you know?

Many dogs can carry a "mutant" copy of a genetic disease while appearing perfectly healthy themselves. They are called "Hidden Carriers". If 2 dogs are paired and they both are "carriers" then the disease will present in the puppies.

Isn't that powerful information to have?

Have you ever done a DNA test for your dog or cat? Was it to find their breed mix, or were you looking for health insights?
Inqaba Biotec ZooOmics

12/01/2026

23/09/2025

Hyperuricosuria (HUU) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterised by high levels of uric acid in the urine which leads to formation of kidney stones and other urinary tract issues. This disease is very prevalent in the Dalmatian breed. While there is no cure, screening for this mutation allows for early symptom management.

For more info contact us on ➡➡➡ [email protected].

27/06/2025

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a pharmacogenetic disease that results in severe complications during general anaesthesia characterised by hypercapnia, tachycardia and hyperthermia.

It is important to get this test done as it will allow your vet to make an informed decision about what anaesthesia to give your pup, to avoid any potential complications.

For more info contact us on ➡➡➡ [email protected].

27/06/2025

Guess Nimbys breed and win a breed ancestry test with Tshwane SPCA! 🤩🐶