The Missyplicity Project is attempting to clone the first dog, Missy. GSC plans to bank the genetic material of animals by receiving skin samples from the animals which are obtained by veterinarians. The samples will be frozen in liquid nitrogen and can be stored indefinitely. The company plans to offer commercial dog cloning in the near future.
Research is also underway to determine the correct technology for cloning cats.
When the cloning technology has been perfected, animal owners may request the banked genetic material of their animal be used to develop a clone of the animal. Cloning an animal will duplicate its physical characteristics, but not its personality. The bioethics of cloning and its relationship to animal rights and welfare are hotly debated issues. With the knowledge of new technology, we must also have the wisdom to use it properly. It is important that each of us keep ourselves informed on these topics.