Morris Animal Foundation Awards More than $1 Million for New Canine and Feline Health Studies

Morris Animal Foundation, a leader in advancing animal health, is awarding more than $1 million in grants for 16 canine and feline research projects. The studies will help veterinary scientists improve the health and quality of life of cats and dogs suffering from deadly and debilitating diseases and issues, such as canine cancer, spinal injury and feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

“Pets enrich our lives in more ways than we can possibly count, and they deserve all the help we can provide to live longer, healthier lives,” said Tiffany Grunert, Morris Animal Foundation’s President and CEO. “Every one of these studies has the potential to do just that in significant ways and we’re proud to support them.”

Through this year’s grants, totaling $1,035,350, the Foundation is supporting scientists at nine universities, including North Carolina State University, Colorado State University and the University of California, Davis. The Foundation’s Small Animal Scientific Advisory Board reviewed all submitted grant applications and selected, based on scientific merit and impact, the studies with the greatest potential to save lives, preserve health and advance veterinary care. Newly funded studies include:

Evaluating a Promising Cancer Drug in Dogs

Researchers will evaluate the potential of a novel drug derived from the feverfew plant to treat rapidly fatal canine cancers. Findings will provide necessary preliminary data to inform future clinical trials evaluating the drug in dogs with aggressive cancers.

Preventing Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Researchers will develop an oral vaccine against feline enteric coronavirus (FECV) to prevent its deadly mutated form, FIP, an important fatal infectious disease of domestic cats. If successful, this vaccine will control pervasive FECV infection in shelters and other multi-cat environments.

Developing a Prognostic Test for Neural Injuries in Dogs

Researchers will develop a rapid bedside test to help gauge the severity and prognosis of central nervous system (CNS) injuries in dogs. An inexpensive test that provides rapid prognosis of a wide range of CNS injuries, from strokes to acute spinal cord injuries, will help inform appropriate care and treatment of affected dogs.

Morris Animal Foundation, headquartered in Denver, is one of the world’s largest nonprofit organizations that funds scientific studies to advance the health of animals. At any given time, the Foundation has more than 150 studies underway in dogs, cats, horses and wildlife. Since its founding in 1948, the Foundation has supported more than 2,700 studies and invested more than $155 million.

About Morris Animal Foundation

Morris Animal Foundation’s mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded by a veterinarian in 1948, we fund and conduct critical health studies for the benefit of all animals. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.

Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=173286

Posted by chesliepickett on Oct 15 2019. Filed under Featured, The Buzz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.