A Florida couple pays $155,000 for a cloned puppy -- watch the pup play ! [JAN 2009]

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A couple from Boca Raton, FL reports that they have purchased the first single-birth, commercially cloned puppy in the United States.

BioArts International created a genetic clone of Nina and Edgar Ott's deceased yellow lab, Lancelot. The puppy, Lancelot Encore, was born 10 wks ago in South Korea, and delivered to the couple at Miami International Airport on Monday night.

The Otts believed that genetic cloning would someday be possible and had their lab's DNA collected, and frozen, 5 years ago. Their prior dog, Lancelot, passed away in January 2008. BioArts held an auction for their dog cloning service this past July, and the Otts paid $155,000 for their chance to have Lancelot genetically reproduced.

In August 2008, Bernann McKinney had 5 pit bull terrier puppies genetically reproduced from her deceased companion, Booger. Animal charities deeply condemned the practice at the time, citing the thousands of dogs needing homes in area shelters. Opponents also remind those considering cloning that life experiences affect personalities, not just genetics.

Apparently the science to continue this practice is here, if you have the money and the desire to pursue it.


by Penny Eims, Tacoma Dogs Examiner [ January 28, 2009 ]

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