animal successes

animal successes » dogs

Dogs are members of the family. Because of this, MAF has funded hundreds of studies since 1950 to address the causes of pain, suffering and diseases in dogs. Below are just a few examples of how we've improved the health and well-being of dogs. Learn about our current studies.

  • Canine Cancer Campaign:
    MAF launched a major cancer initiative to cure dogs of cancer in 10 to 20 years, or the lifetime of a dog. Efforts include a national tumor tissue bank, a clinical trial for bone cancer treatment, and a long–term prevention study. Visit the Canine Cancer Campaign website.
  • First Parvovirus Vaccine:
    Foundation funding supported the development of the first parvovirus vaccine, saving the lives of thousands of dogs.
  • Diets for Dogs with Kidney Failure:
    Early Foundation–funded studies helped define the role of protein and phosphorous in the diet of dogs with kidney failure, helping veterinarians to manage the condition with nutrition. A recent study determined that a daily low dose of calcitriol stabilizes kidney function and slows disease progression.
  • Tests to Identify Blindness Gene:
    Scientists identified the gene for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a group of blinding diseases in dogs. This led to the development of breed–specific DNA tests to help veterinarians and breeders distinguish affected, carrier and normal dogs and breed out these diseases.
  • Early Lymphoma Detection:
    A simple blood test was developed to provide early detection of lymphoma in dogs.
  • New Drug to Fight Bone Cancer:
    Researchers studied a combination of conventional chemotherapy drugs and the drug suramin that appears to provide better treatment than conventional therapy alone and could improve long–term survival of dogs with bone cancer.
  • Technique to Remove Bladder Stones:
    Researchers used a laser lithotripsy technique to remove bladder and urethral stones in dogs. This technique offers veterinarians a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery and provides dogs with rapid recovery and minimal discomfort.
  • Treatment for Heart Abnormalities:
    Scientists successfully used radiofrequency catheter ablation to cure dogs with a heart condition known as accessory pathways. Another study used a silicone cuff to treat portosystemic shunts, the second most common congenital cardiovascular abnormality in dogs.
Search MAF animal health studies
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