Mars Petcare said the acquisition of Genoscoper Laboratories will accelerate the pace of discoveries in genetics, to form the basis for future practical applications in enabling precision healthcare for pets.

Mars Petcare’s genetic testing unit Wisdom Health is a pioneer in this field with its market leading breed detection test WISDOM PANEL^. Finland-based Genoscoper, in close partnership with the University of Helsinki, created the genetic health testing platform MyDogDNA.

Since 2015, Genoscoper and Wisdom Health have partnered to discover new genetic health markers for companion animals and have recently launched a new product for dogs, WISDOM PANEL Health, combining breed ancestry with detection of potential inherited health conditions.

“Our world-class genetics research is focused on helping pet owners and veterinarians improve the health of pets with tools that define their genetic predispositions for health and disease. Ultimately this will enable targeted and preventive veterinary care with pets getting individualised nutrition, exercise and treatment,” said Leonid Sudakov, president, connected solutions at Mars Petcare.

“This is a critical time in the development of genetic testing for pets, which we believe is poised to expand dramatically as breeders, veterinarians and pet owners increasingly understand its benefits, exactly as it is currently happening for humans.”

The acquisition was finalised on December 27, 2017, and the companies will manage the transition over the course of 2018.