about Morris Animal Foundation
We fund research studies that help protect, treat, and cure animals.
Watch Video In fact, Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) is the world's largest nonprofit foundation 501(c)(3) dedicated to funding research studies to protect, treat and cure animals.
Helping animals across the world
MAF has been at the forefront of funding health breakthroughs that have helped animals on all seven continents. Our funded research helps a wide variety of animals, including companion animals such as dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, as well as wildlife including mountain gorillas, elephants, rhinoceros, wolves, sea otters, and many varieties of birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish.
Morris Animal Foundation's scientific scope
More than 50 of the world's most respected research institutions, colleges of veterinary medicine, and zoos are conducting nearly 200 MAF–sponsored studies and veterinary student projects.
Highlights of success
- By funding more than 100 canine cancer studies, we've tacked the no. 1 killer of dogs and helped veterinarians better detect and treat the disease. Our Canine Cancer Campaign is a global effort to prevent, treat and cure cancer.
- MAF funding supported the development of many vaccines, including the first parvovirus vaccine, which has saved the lives of thousands of dogs.
- Our studies helped lead to the first vaccine for feline leukemia and identified a better diet for managing diabetes.
- Our Happy Healthy Cat Campaign funds feline health research that addresses the most serious diseases in cats and improves the health of cats in shelters.
- Read more about our animal health successes for pets, horses and wildlife.
Morris Animal Foundation's history
MAF was founded in 1948 by Dr. Mark L. Morris Sr., a veterinarian whose unique, pioneering research on diet and animal health saved millions of dogs from kidney failure and revolutionized the pet–food industry. Read more about our history.
Non–profit accreditation
Charity Navigator ranks MAF as a four–star charity, the highest rating. MAF is an accredited member of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance.
Mission Statement
Morris Animal Foundation improves the health and well–being of companion animals and wildlife by funding humane health studies and disseminating information about those studies.
More about Morris Animal Foundation
MAF's Health Study Policy for Animals Involved in Research
