How does one go about testing a basenji for fanconi? Do vets do this or is this something I do myself by mail. Any information or web links would be appreciated.
No, your vet doesn't do it. It is a cheek swab kit that you will need to do. It comes with an instruction sheet about what to do.
First you register your dog with the Canine Phenome Project:
http://www.caninephenome.org/
You will order the DNA kit from within the registration - there is a link to click on the upper right hand side of the page (New FTA based Fanconi test) and it will bring up a page from the OFA (offa.org) where you will place your order. The kit is $65. Be sure to print a copy of the confirmation as that has a login code that you can check for the receipt of the swab by the OFA and the results (before they are mailed).
I recently ordered a kit for my new puppy boy and it arrived 3 days after I ordered it. The results come fast these days - I know someone that found out their results 3 days after the swab was received back at the OFA.
You can order a test from the OFA website, https://secure.offa.org/cart.html
Also, please take the time to register your dog with the Canine Phenome Project, http://www.caninephenome.org, and fill out the surveys. It is free and helps give the health committee a view of what is going on with the breed.
Great! Thanks for the information. This would be for a rescue dog which I will not know any background information on. I assume that does not matter in the surveys?
The important thing with the surveys is that you fill out as much as you know. It is okay if you don't know everything, just leave those things blank.
We hope the results are good, and we will cheer if they are, and if they aren't, we will support you.
Do let us know what you have found please.
