He loved everything a typical 2-year old dog loves — car rides, playing with kiddos, long walks. But with Buckley Bumble, there was even more to love: a signature wobble. Buckley was born with cerebellar hypoplasia, (CH), a neurological condition that affects balance. It didn’t slow him down one bit — in fact, it seemed more like his special swagger. But after 730 days in a shelter, Buckley was still waiting for someone who could see past the wobble to the incredible dog he is.
“He had such a bright, determined spirit. Despite unsteady steps, Buckley’s joy was steady and pure.”
—Shannon Steemke, President
Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue, AZ
Potential adopters were hesitant
Adopting a shelter dog without knowing its breed mix and health risks can be daunting. When it came to Buckley and his wobble, people were even more uncertain. Would he need extra care? They’d watch his walk and ask if he was in pain or if his condition would worsen. Fear of the unknown can be a big barrier — and it kept Buckley waiting for 2 years.
Embark to the rescue: Buckley gets a free DNA test
Enter Embark with a free cheek swab. As part of our Long Stay, No Longer initiative, we partner with animal shelters like Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue to provide free DNA tests for dogs who’ve been in shelters for a long time. By revealing dogs’ unique breed mix and story, we help potential adopters make confident decisions. So dogs like Buckley can find their forever homes.
It began with one quick swab
The data was in the drool — and getting it couldn’t have been easier. Using Embark’s Breed + Health Dog DNA Test Buckley’s caregivers performed a simple cheek swab, then they sent the sample to Embark to identify breed mix, health issues, traits, ancestry, and more. When the shelter received the results about 3 weeks later, everyone suddenly knew Buckley a whole lot better.
The test provided the shelter with unexpected insights
Buckley’s breed results showed that he is mostly a Supermutt , with healthy dollops of Pittie and Chow Chow. And although his health report called out a few conditions, it confirmed that Buckley was “notable” for them but not “at risk.”
- 47.4% Supermutt
- 20.4 American Pit Bull Terrier
- 19.6% Chow Chow
- 7.8% Labrador Retriever
- 4.8% Pomeranian
But the big reveal was what didn’t show up on the test: CH
Buckley’s results confirmed his condition was not genetic: it was due to a developmental event in utero, like a viral infection, toxin exposure, or nutritional deficiency. That explains why not all of Buckley’s littermates were affected. If CH had been due to a genetic mutation, all affected puppies would inherit the same two copies of the variant.
Conversations instantly changed
Armed with Buckley’s genetic health results, the folks at Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue could confidently explain that because Buckley’s CH is non-genetic, it will never get worse. In fact, with the right symptom management (like non-slip flooring and frequent nail trims), Buckley’s coordination may actually improve. And because his condition isn’t inherited, he can’t pass it on genetically—so no puppies wouldn’t be at risk for CH.
“[The test] shifted the conversation from sympathy to celebration — from what he can’t do to everything he can do. It helped people see the amazing dog behind [the condition].”
—Shannon Steemke, President
Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue, AZ
Buckley was adopted 2 months later!
2 years in the shelter. Countless close calls. And then, just 2 months after his DNA test — Buckley was adopted! His new person is a previous adopter who wanted a calm, easy-going dog in retired life. Temperamentally, Buckley was the perfect fit. And once the DNA test alleviated any health concerns, it was go time. Buckley’s adoptive dad is delighted to report that Buckley is “settling right in.”
Every shelter dog’s story needs to be told
Buckley’s story is unique, but it’s representative of shelter dog experiences everywhere: they’re more likely to get adopted when their breed mix and genetic health are known. If you’re thinking of adopting, consider a DNA test; you’ll get the insights you need to make a confident decision, take the very best care of your new BFF, and build lifelong bonds.
Meet more Embarked dogs who found forever homes
Read the stories of 12 incredible pups adopted through our Long Stay, No Longer initiative.
