Your dog has trillions of cells, each one containing DNA with about 19,000 genes. Every day, cells die and are replaced by new ones after copying their genetic material… and sometimes those copies include mistakes.Charlotte Hacker has a deep love of genetics, and explains the basics of how genetics work and how mutations can occur. Not all of these mistakes are harmful, but a mutation in the wrong spot or a buildup of multiple mutations can lead to cancer.Listen now to learn about proto-oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, why bigger dogs are more likely to get cancer, and how you can help support the health of your dog’s DNA.Links Mentioned in Today’s Show:Genetic Mutations and Dog Cancer: An Overview (article) https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stats-and-facts/genetic-mutations-and-dog-cancer/Related Links:Genetics in Canine Cancer articleSearchLight DNA Can Find Your Dog’s Cancer Genotype podcast episodeSunshine for Dogs articleChapters:0:00 Start3:48 Genetics 1017:14 Mutation is a Change11:52 Causes of Spontaneous Mutations16:10 Oncogenes18:58 Tumor Suppressor Genes21:40 Preventing MutationsAbout Today’s Guest, Dr. Charlotte Hacker: Dr. Charlotte Hacker graduated with her Masters in 2015 studying animal welfare and behavior, and her Doctorate in 2021 with a focus on the use of molecular genetic approaches to study at-risk wildlife.A conservation biologist by vocation, Charlotte’s love for all things animals started with a love for dogs. Her research interests are multifaced and include mammalian genetics, international conservation science policy, and human-animal relations.Dr. Hacker is passionate about writing, science communication, and improving the livelihoods of humans and the animals they share space with. Her hobbies include yoga, hiking, watching documentaries, and traveling. She is based in Washington, D.C., with her rescue miniature dachshund, Nittany.LinkedInOther Links:If you would like to ask a dog cancer related question for one of our expert veterinarians to answer on a future Q&A episode, call our Listener Line at 808-868-3200. Dog Cancer News is a free weekly newsletter that contains useful information designed to help your dog with cancer. To sign up, please visit DogCancerNews.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices