Is it just me, or are we living in a world where the unimaginable has become routine? From the likes of Kim Kardashian embracing motherhood to the resurgence of beloved fashion trends, we’re witnessing a cultural renaissance. And as if that’s not enough, now you can clone your beloved pets. What a fascinating time to be alive!
Of course, when I say “people,” I’m not including the average pet owner. Growing up in a household that buried our pets in the backyard, the idea of cloning our family dog was light-years away from reality. But if you happen to be a celebrity like Barbra Streisand, it’s a whole different ballgame.
According to reports from Variety, Streisand successfully cloned her cherished dog, Samantha, who passed away last May. Determined to keep a part of Samantha alive, she had cells taken from the dog’s mouth and stomach before her passing. This resulted in not one, but two adorable clones, affectionately named Miss Violet and Miss Scarlett.
Due to their striking similarities, Streisand found it hard to tell them apart, prompting her to dress them in coordinating sweaters—one purple and one red. You can find these cuties featured on her Instagram alongside their cousin, Miss Fanny.
How Much Does It Cost to Clone a Pet?
Now, you might be wondering, how much does it actually cost to clone a pet? Surprisingly, it’s not the astronomical figure you might think. Thanks to ViaGen, the service now runs about $50,000 for dogs and $25,000 for cats, a far cry from the earlier price tag of $100,000. For someone like Barbra, that’s likely pocket change.
The Ethical Debate Surrounding Pet Cloning
However, the ethical debate surrounding pet cloning continues to rage. Just as in 1995 when Dolly the Sheep was cloned, people are questioning the morality of playing God. While Streisand seems unbothered by the controversy, others, like author John Woestendiek, raise valid concerns. He points out that with so many dogs in shelters, do we really need more? He also highlights the multiple surgeries involved in cloning, which raises ethical issues, as well as the fact that a pet’s unique personality can’t be replicated.
Even Streisand acknowledges this, expressing to Variety that the cloned dogs possess distinct personalities. “I’m waiting to see if they inherit her brown eyes and seriousness,” she said.
The Motivation Behind Cloning Pets
So, what’s the real motivation behind spending this kind of money? Is it simply to have a tangible reminder of a lost pet? For many, it may seem extravagant, but perhaps for the wealthy, it’s just another way to keep a piece of their beloved companion close.
But let’s not be too quick to judge. Barbra has earned her place in history as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. As the first woman to simultaneously star in, direct, produce, and co-write a film, she shattered the glass ceiling. Her advocacy for women’s rights and support for causes like Hillary Clinton’s campaign further cements her status as a force for good.
So, if cloning pets is what brings joy to Barbra Streisand, who are we to criticize? Personally, I can’t see myself seeking out a pet-cloning service, mainly because I don’t own any pets and my finances are more suited for essentials than luxuries. However, if someone were to offer a cloning service for moms, I might just reconsider my stance!
Conclusion
In summary, Barbra Streisand’s decision to clone her beloved dog Samantha has sparked a mix of fascination and ethical debate. With the costs of cloning decreasing and the complexities of animal personality at play, it raises important questions about the future of pet ownership and what it truly means to replace a loved one.
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