OUR DINGO PROJECT IS NOW STARTING TO COLLECT SAMPLES – ARE YOU INTERESTED?

WHAT IS THE PROJECT ABOUT?

The research aims to study the identity of dingoes in Australia. This includes looking at the origins of the dingo, relationships between dingoes and domestic dogs, hybridisation with domestic dogs and patterns of genetic variation.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

We are looking for dingoes from across Australia to contribute a DNA sample. The sample can be saliva, buccal swab or blood (taken by a vet). Owners will also need to fill in some forms with information about their dingo and supply some photographs of each dingo.

IS THERE A COST?

Saliva or buccal sampling kits will be provided for free to contributors; however, contributors will need to return the samples to the research lab (in Sydney) at their cost. If blood is taken (by a vet) then owners would need to pay the vet fees.

DO I GET ANYTHING IN RETURN?

If your sample is used for the research project then you will get an individual report concerning your dingoes’ genetic ancestry, population identity and any other information that is discovered. This report may not be available until the research is completed; an estimated timeline is 2 years. Besides that you will be helping scientists to undertake key research into what makes dingoes special and unique. This research may result in a new reliable and accurate “dingo DNA test”.

WHAT DO I DO IF I AM INTERESTED?

If you are interested in taking part then please get in touch with Dr Kylie Cairns (k.cairns@unsw.edu.au) with some brief information about your dingoes (ie pedigree, origins, colour, age) and your contact details.

This research is funded by a grant from the Australian Dingo Foundation

For more information follow this project on:

Facebook: @dingogenetics

Twitter: @dr_cairns

Website: www.kyliecairns.com

Email: k.cairns@unsw.edu.au