At PawSeq, we use whole genome sequencing to study genetic variation and disease in companion animals, especially cats and dogs. Our goal is to make advanced genomic analysis available to pet owners who want to better understand their animal's health and genetics, whether because of common chronic illness or rare disease.

We offer two types of analysis. For animals with severe, unexplained health conditions, we can search the genome for genetic changes that may help explain their symptoms and potentially match that with the animal's health records. This is our most in-depth type of consultation and is similar to the services people receive at genetics clinics. You will receive a full genomics report that is integrated with the health-related information you provided on your pet and may identify potential diagnoses that you can further explore with your vet team.

As a less in-depth type of genetic analysis, we can perform a broad genomic screen that doesn't begin with a particular disease or diagnosis, but it allows us to look for potentially important genetic findings that might otherwise be missed. This report will not contain suggested diagnoses but a list of mutations that may be of interest. You can take this report to your vet for follow-up.

PawSeq grew out of a very personal experience with rare disease. In 2020, I rescued two kitten brothers, Teddy and Jamie, who initially seemed healthy. Within months, however, Jamie began losing his mobility and Teddy soon developed similar symptoms. Despite extensive veterinary and genetic testing, we never received a definitive diagnosis, although a lysosomal storage disease was suspected. Both boys ultimately died from their disease at less than two years old.

Losing Teddy and Jamie was devastating and never knowing exactly what took them made it even harder. I learned firsthand that an answer matters. A genetic diagnosis may help guide treatment or improve quality of life, but even when it can't change the outcome, simply understanding why can bring real comfort to the people who love that animal.

That experience helped inspire PawSeq. Genomic medicine is increasingly used to solve rare diseases in people and we want to bring that same kind of investigation to companion animals. Teddy and Jamie never got their answer, but we hope PawSeq can help other families find theirs.

Helping pets. Helping people find answers.