Dog Cloning for $50,000 Did Not Comfort the Owner: The Story of a Woman from California

Woman Spent $50,000 on Dog Cloning

48-year-old California resident Vanessa Johnson shared that her attempt to clone her deceased dog named Oliver did not bring her the expected improvement in mood but only deepened her loss. The dog cloning procedure cost her $50,000.

After her beloved dog, a Pomeranian-Chihuahua, passed away from cancer in December 2024, Johnson experienced a severe emotional crisis. To find a way out, she turned to a company called Viagen that specializes in cloning.

Despite the high cost of the procedure, for which she had to work extra and save money, Johnson did receive a clone of her beloved pet, whom she named Olli. The little dog resembled the late Oliver very much.

Error in Choice

This is not Oliver. This is just a part of him, not him himself. I felt the loss again

However, almost a year after making the decision, the woman admits that it was a mistake made during a time of grief. Johnson says that if she had 'processed her grief properly', she would simply have adopted another dog from a shelter as she always did.

Plans for the Future

After discussions online, the woman faced numerous criticism for spending such a large sum on cloning instead of helping homeless animals. Johnson understands these criticisms and intends to use her experience. She plans to shelter elderly dogs and raise awareness about shelter issues after training Olli.

Overall, Vanessa Johnson's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of reflecting before making such complex decisions as animal cloning. Making prudent decisions in deep emotional states can lead to unforeseen consequences.