LIMOUSIN TODAY LimToday_HRI18_WEB | Page 51

Management compares 10-12 markers, while SNP compares over 80, making SNP much more accurate parent verification method. Occasionally, it is necessary to go back and run an ET calf on the old STR markers if a new sample to retrieve SNP markers on the donor dam or AI sire is unavailable. SNP and STR parentage can be run alongside each other, but most breeders are not aware of the need for different markers required for a calf until the results come back as “genotype not on file” for the sire or dam, and parent verification is not completed. As a breeder making the investment in DNA testing, it is your responsibility to determine which parentage markers are required on a calf in order to achieve successful parent verification. In the office, I try to check as many as possible, but with hundreds of samples flowing in and out each week, it can be difficult to look up parents on every parent verification test request that comes in. When in doubt, give me a call. A five-minute phone call could easily save you an extra 3-4 weeks of wait time. Communication Primary means of DNA result reporting is done through email. If you would prefer a phone call, please notify somewhere on your test request form or by phone. Results will come through as an email from [email protected], so make sure to check your junk mail in addition to your inbox. Any communication done after that will need to be through me directly, alison@ nalf.org. If a breeder reads his/ her results emails and notices an exclusion or problem, a solution can usually be reached quickly with an email to me. With the tools provided to me by the lab and Digital Beef, most sire and dam exclusions can be resolved within the week, sometimes the same day. The DNA testing process can be complex, so I encourage t r n y u R o o C a t d e L ake you to s t We’d love for you to come see the song-inspiring beauty of these mountain trails and look through some great Limousin cattle as well! Give us a call and stop by for a visit anytime. Victor Friend 14 Garden Lane Duck, WV 25063 [email protected] Home: 304-765-7723 | Mobile: 304-288-3171 LIMOUSIN Today | 49