Are you curious what your pet's DNA can reveal?
BirchBark is thrilled to welcome Dr. Robert Grahn, PhD; and Dr. Liza Gershony, DVM, PhD, for our upcoming webinar on pet genetics. Drs. Grahn and Gershony, each of the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, will lead us on a tour of the fascinating world of genetic testing for cats and dogs. You'll learn about coat color genetics, health risks, and breed traits.
Whether you're a pet guardian, breeder, or simply interested in the science of pets, you'll come away from this webinar with a deeper understanding of why our pets are the way they are and how genetic testing can improve our pets’ health and wellbeing.
This webinar will be held on Zoom and a recording will be sent to all who register.
Speaker: Dr. Robert Grahn, PhD – Associate Director of Services and Test Development, Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Grahn has dedicated over 25 years to the discovery and testing of inherited diseases in companion animals, contributing to more than 60 peer-reviewed publications in the field. He serves as a standing member of the International Society of Animal Genetics, participating in both the Companion Animal Genetics and Genomics and the Canine and Feline Comparison Test committees.
As one of two geneticists on the AKC Genetics Advisory Panel, Dr. Grahn brings valuable expertise to the realm of canine genetics. He is also a member of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science, emphasizing his commitment to advancing scientific standards in animal genetics.
Dr. Grahn’s primary research focuses on uncovering the genetic basis of inherited diseases and traits in cats and dogs. He collaborates closely with veterinarians, breed clubs, owners, breeders, and students to identify genetic causes of inherited disorders. His mission is to enhance public resources that promote the genetic health of our animal companions. Dr. Grahn is passionate about engaging with pet owners to address concerns and provide solutions related to breed-specific inherited disorders.
Speaker: Dr. Liza Gershony, DVM, PhD – Outreach Coordinator and Geneticist, Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Gershony has dedicated over 20 years to enhancing the health and wellbeing of companion animals with over 10 years focused on discovery, testing and education of inherited diseases in dogs and other domestic species. She received her Veterinary Medicine Degree and a Masters Degree in Brazil and later completed a PhD in canine genetics at the University of California, Davis. During her PhD, Dr. Gershony studied the genetics behind autoimmune disorders in dogs.
In 2020, Dr. Gershony co-authored a comprehensive review on the state of genetic testing in dogs for the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (AKC CHF). This review was designed to inform dog owners and breeders about trait inheritance, as well as the technology and applications of DNA testing to enhance canine health. The document is available on the AKC CHF website.
In her current role as Outreach Coordinator at the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Dr. Gershony collaborates closely with breeders, registries, and breed clubs to promote education and ensure the responsible use of genetic testing to improve the health and well-being of animals. Additionally, she contributes to research projects investigating the genetic causes of diseases in animals, advancing our understanding of animal genetics.