Denver/July 11, 2023 — Orvis, a leading retailer in fly-fishing gear, dog products and outdoor travel apparel, has raised more than $2 million to support Morris Animal Foundation in its fight to end canine cancer.
The partnership between Orvis and Morris Animal Foundation began 14 years ago with the Orvis Cover Dog Contest, which allows people to submit photos of their dogs for a chance to have them appear on the cover of the Orvis catalog. Each vote in the contest costs $1, and all proceeds go to Morris Animal Foundation's canine cancer research programs.
"Dogs are four-legged family members who help us connect with the outdoors on a truly special level,” said Orvis President Simon Perkins. “They make our lives better and more fulfilling. As someone who has five dogs in my own family, including a 17-year-old setter who beat cancer thanks to early detection, it is incredibly rewarding and heartwarming to see the progress we can make together to help ensure our dogs are living long and healthy lives.”
The $2 million raised has supported 33 universities and research institutions globally. This funding has resulted in new treatments for lymphoma, one of the most common cancers in dogs, increased knowledge on genetic risk factors and environmental exposures, novel surgical procedures, and new therapies for hemangiosarcoma, the leading cause of cancer deaths in Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study – one of the largest, most comprehensive canine health studies in the United States.
"We are so grateful to Orvis and their customers for their support and dedication to our mission to advance animal health research,” said Amy Bailey, Morris Animal Foundation Chief Marketing Officer. "The funds raised through the Orvis Cover Dog Contest have contributed to significant advancements in canine cancer research, and we are proud to partner with Orvis in this important work."
About Orvis
Founded in 1856, Orvis inspires the world to share and celebrate the adventure and wonder in nature. Orvis pioneered the mail-order industry in the United States and operates more than 80 retail stores in the U.S. Additionally, it maintains a network of over 400 dealers worldwide as a trusted source of discovery and adventure in the natural world through fly fishing, wingshooting and our connection with dogs. A value-driven company, Orvis protects and restores the natural world by committing 5% of pretax profits each year to conservation efforts worldwide. To learn more visit Orvis.com/caninecancer.
About Morris Animal Foundation
Morris Animal Foundation’s mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Denver, it is one of the largest nonprofit animal health research organizations in the world, funding more than $149 million in nearly 3,000 critical studies across a broad range of species. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.
Media Contacts:
Kelsey Bardach – Orvis
Annie Mehl – Morris Animal Foundation
