How Much Does It Cost to Clone Your Pet?

Let's set aside science fiction and fantasy stories: pet cloning is already among us, and it's a market that keeps growing. With the increase in demand, there have been significant changes in the price of available services, but how much exactly does it cost? Although the final number depends on the type of animal to clone, the economic parameters are already similar to those of a mid-to-high-end car...

Discussing the ethical and moral aspects of cloning is truly fascinating, but technological progress doesn't necessarily wait for our debates, and if you want to clone your pet today, well... the truth is you can. Many people out there have enormous difficulties overcoming the loss of a companion, and they find in cloning a way to extend the bond. There are also practical applications, such as reproducing bovines, equines, and canines with specific characteristics (for example, those more receptive to advanced training).

How much does it cost?

But the underlying question is quite obvious: how much does it cost? In less than 25 years (starting with Dolly), the cloning of mammals went from experimental process to commercial service, and the number of inquiries keeps increasing. One of the main “providers” is South Korea, where cloning a dog can cost around 80,000 euros; however, the folks at Viagen Pets offer slightly more accessible options:

• The total price to clone a dog is 50,000 dollars, divided into two identical payments.
• In the case of a cat, the cost is 35,000 dollars, also divided into two payments.
• Finally, whoever wants the clone of a horse must pay 80,000 dollars in two installments.

Another service from the company is the genetic preservation of a pet. It's important to note that this does not force the owner to go ahead with cloning; it's simply a “genetic insurance”, in case you prefer to do it later. The cost of preservation is 1,600 dollars.

Finally, a question: If you had the money, would you clone your pet? Personally, I know the pain of losing dogs and cats (from old age and from illnesses)... but I think I would let them rest, and share a new story with another animal.

Official site: Click here