We Create New Life After Death:

Pet Genetic Preservation for Cloning

Losing a pet is heartbreaking. For some families, preserving a pet’s genetics can be a comforting way to keep future options open, including the possibility of pet cloning later on. At Gemini Genetics, we specialize in pet genetic preservation for cloning for dogs, cats, and horses in the UK and Europe.

Not sure where you are right now? Start here:
• If your pet has just passed away or euthanasia is imminent: jump to Urgent: What to do now
• If your pet is elderly or you’re planning ahead: jump to Planning ahead (while your pet is alive)

What is pet genetic preservation for cloning?

Genetic preservation (sometimes called cell banking) involves collecting a small skin sample from your pet and securely storing it for the future. At Gemini Genetics, we preserve and store the skin sample itself and can also grow living cells in our laboratory. When you submit samples to us, you select the service you would like via our service booking form. When our collection and shipping instructions are followed, over 96% of samples are suitable for successful cell culture. Once cells are generated and you are ready to clone, the samples can be shipped to our world leading partner cloning company, ViaGen Pets. Here the cloning takes place and depending on your location, you can expect to welcome your cloned puppy into your home from 16 weeks of age.

Urgent: What to do now (after death or imminent euthanasia)

Genetic preservation is possible after a pet has passed away but timing and handling are critical.

The most important rules

• Aim to collect and send a skin sample within 5 days of death
• Keep your pet chilled at +4°C (refrigerated), not frozen
• A skin biopsy is required (hair is not suitable for cloning)
• Your vet takes the samples needed, following our instructions here – https://www.geminigenetics.com/emergency-cat-dog-instructions/

Step-by-step checklist (urgent)

1. Keep your pet chilled at +4°C (your vet can usually help with this)
2. Do not freeze the body or the skin samples
3. Ask your vet to take a skin sample as soon as possible, following our instructions. You can access these via our website here https://www.geminigenetics.com/emergency-cat-dog-instructions/
4. Contact Gemini Genetics immediately for guidance on handling and shipping
5. Send the sample to our UK lab for processing and preservation

If you’re unsure what to do, contact us — we’ll guide you calmly through the next steps.
WhatsApp is the quickest way of reaching us in an emergency. Our WhatsApp number is 07710 788 016.

Planning Ahead for Pet Genetic Preservation for Cloning (While Your Pet Is Alive)

Planning ahead can make a difficult time less stressful and ensures you’re ready to act quickly when the time comes. For most owners, this means understanding the steps needed to collect and send a sample after their pet passes away—not taking a sample while your pet is still alive.

If your pet is elderly, has a serious diagnosis, or if euthanasia may be planned, it’s a good idea to:

• Speak with your vet in advance and let them know you wish to preserve a sample for possible cloning.
• Make sure your vet is aware of the correct procedures for sample collection and storage (we can provide clear instructions).
• Understand that, in most cases, the sample will be taken after your pet has passed away, and the body should be kept refrigerated at +4°C (not frozen) until the sample can be collected.
• Sample collection and arrival at Gemini Genetics should be within 5 days of pet passing

Note: In some countries, collecting a live tissue sample may be possible, but this depends on local veterinary regulations. If you’re interested in this option, please check with your vet first or contact us for guidance. Your vet can review the information for live sample taking via our web link here – https://www.geminigenetics.com/emergency-cat-dog-instructions/

Live sample taking is not permitted in the UK (with limited exceptions).

When should I consider planning ahead for pet genetic preservation for cloning?

You might consider it if:
• Your pet is senior or has a serious diagnosis
• You want to keep cloning as an option, but don’t want to decide now
• You want a clear plan in place “just in case”

Benefits of planning ahead

• Ensures your vet and family know your wishes and are prepared to act quickly
• Reduces stress and uncertainty during an emotional time
• Helps protect your options for the future

What sample is needed for pet genetic preservation for cloning (and what doesn’t work)

For cloning-related preservation, a skin sample collected by a veterinary professional is required.
Key points:
• Hair, blood, nail clippings and saliva are not sufficient for cloning
• Clean handling and prompt shipping matter
• We can advise your vet on best practice if needed
• Instructions on sample taking and shipping are readily available via our website – https://www.geminigenetics.com/emergency-cat-dog-instructions/

How the process works (step-by-step)

1. Sample arrives at Gemini Genetics (UK laboratory)
2. Cell culture and/or genetic preservation begins (typically 7–14 days to establish healthy cells) (service performed is selected by the submitting client).
3. Sample Storage – Once our services are completed, the samples go into storage until you are ready for the next step.
4. If you choose to clone later, preserved genetics can be shipped to ViaGen to begin the cloning stage

Do I have to clone immediately?

No. Most families choose preservation first and decide later. Genetic preservation keeps your options open while you take time — whether you’re planning ahead or coping with a recent loss.

Frequently asked questions

1. Is a cloned pet the same as my original pet?
   A clone is genetically the same as the original pet, but personality and behavior can still vary due to environment and life experience. You can learn more about the similarity between clones and their originals via our dedicated ‘Cloned Pets’ web page.
2. How long can genetics be stored?
   Cells can be stored long-term under cryogenic conditions. At Gemini Genetics, a monthly storage fee applies. You can find our latest prices via our dedicated ‘Price List’ page.
3. How much does genetic preservation cost?
   At the time of writing, genetic preservation with Gemini Genetics starts from £600 + VAT. You can find our latest prices via our dedicated ‘Price List’ page

Talk to us (urgent or planning)

If you’re in an urgent situation or you’d like to plan ahead, contact us and we’ll guide you through the best next step. Our company brochure may also be of interest to you, along with the below web links.

• Genetic Preservation for Pets
• Emergency Cat & Dog Cloning Instructions
• Emergency Horse Cloning Instructions
• Price List
• FAQ
• Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Genetic Preservation for Cloning

1) Can I preserve my pet’s DNA for cloning after they die?
Yes. Pet genetic preservation for cloning is possible after death, but timing and handling matter a lot. The skin sample should be collected and sent within 5 days of pet passing and your pet should be kept chilled at +4°C (not frozen).

2) How long do I have to take a sample for cloning?
Ideally as soon as possible. Collection and arrival at Gemini Genetics should happen within 5 days of death if your pet has been kept properly chilled. If you’re unsure, contact us right away and we’ll help you understand what’s still possible.

3) Should I freeze my pet’s body or the tissue sample?
No — freezing can damage the living cells needed for genetic preservation. The best approach is to keep your pet refrigerated at +4°C (your vet can usually help with this).

4) What sample is needed to clone a dog or cat (hair vs skin)?

For cloning-related genetic preservation, hair is not suitable. A skin biopsy collected by a veterinary professional is required because it provides the type of living cells needed for cell culture and preservation.

5) Can my vet take the sample, or do I need to travel to you?
Your vet can usually take the skin biopsy. We can guide you (and your vet if needed) on best practice for collection and shipping so the sample arrives in the best possible condition. You can also find information on sample shipping via the emergency section on our website. https://www.geminigenetics.com/emergency-cat-dog-instructions/

6) Can I preserve my pet’s genetics while they are still alive?
Whether this can be done depends on veterinary regulations in your country, as live tissue sampling is not permitted everywhere. If you’re interested in this option, please check with your vet first or contact us for guidance. For most families, planning ahead means being prepared to collect a sample as soon as possible after their pet passes away. We recommend letting your vet know your wishes in advance and making sure everyone understands the correct procedures for collection and storage. If you’d like more information about either approach, we’re here to help

7) Do I have to decide about cloning straight away?
No. Many families choose genetic preservation first and decide later. It can be a gentle “keep the option open” step while you take time to grieve and think.

8) How does pet genetic preservation for cloning work (step by step)?
In simple terms: a small tissue sample is collected, living cells are grown in the lab, and those cells are cryopreserved for long-term storage. If you choose to clone later, preserved genetics can be shipped to our cloning partner to begin the cloning stage.

9) How long can preserved genetics be stored?
Preserved cells can be stored long-term under cryogenic conditions. There is no storage pressure to clone immediately.

10) How much does pet genetic preservation for cloning cost in the UK?
Genetic preservation at the time of writing is £600 + VAT initially. Ongoing storage is available on a monthly basis. You can find latest prices via our price list page – https://www.geminigenetics.com/price-list/

11) Is a cloned pet exactly the same as my original pet?
A clone is genetically identical to the original pet. While your cloned pet will have many similarities to the original, they will also have their own traits and personalities as well. Personality and behavior can vary because environment, training, and life experiences still shape who they become.

12) What if I’m contacting you during an emergency or outside normal hours?
If time is critical, reach out as soon as you can. We understand these situations are emotional and urgent, and we’ll guide you through the next steps as clearly and calmly as possible. WhatsApp is the best way to reach us in an emergency. Our WhatsApp number is 07710 778 016. You can also contact us via email info@geminigenetics.com for more information on pet genetic preservation for cloning.