DENVER/January 23, 2023 – Morris Animal Foundation is now accepting proposals for studies focused on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs. This request is part of the Foundation’s Donor-Inspired Study program, which allows individual donors to directly support a research topic they have a passion for, and for which there is a pressing need. Grant applications are due by April 14, 2023, 4:59 p.m. ET.
This grant is being funded by Jack and Megan Czerwinski in memory of Zinnie, their beloved dog lost to inflammatory bowel disease at only 3 years old. The Czerwinskis worked closely with the Foundation to provide funding for studies focused on innovative ways to treat, or cure, IBD in dogs.
“This was a very difficult journey to take together,” said the Czerwinskis in a statement. “But we wouldn't trade our time with Zinnie and know how blessed we are to have had even a few years with him. With this study, we know that Zinnie's impact won't end with his life and will extend far beyond just the people and pups who knew him.”
IBD is a common disease of dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. While IBD can be managed through treatment, therapies and diet for many dogs, some dogs die of complications of the disease.
Submitted proposals should be focused on harnessing new technology or therapeutic approaches to treat or cure canine IBD. Projects oriented toward human health, IBD diagnostic development, or those involving other animal species do not fall within Morris Animal Foundation’s mission for this request for proposals and will not be reviewed.
All investigators are eligible to apply, but budget requests cannot exceed $65,000 USD and project duration cannot be longer than 24 months. Competitive applicants will have a demonstrated record of research and publication in canine inflammatory bowel disease.
Applications will be reviewed and rated, based on impact and scientific rigor, by a scientific advisory board, made up of canine IBD experts. Interested researchers can learn more and apply for the award on the Foundation's Grants page.
Scientific Advisory Board
- Preston Williams, PhD, Freenome
- Karin Allenspach, DR.MED.VET., FVH, Dipl.ECVIM-CA, PHD, FHEA, RVCS, AGAF, Iowa State University
- Kathy Gross, PhD, PAS, Dipl. ACAN, Retired from Hill's Pet Nutrition
- Ana Guimarães, DVM, MSc, PhD, University of São Paulo, Brazil
- Gagandeep Kaur, DVM, PhD, Western University
- Dawn Kingsbury, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (SAIM), AnimalBiome
- Korinn Saker, MS, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (Nutrition), The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine
- Ernie Ward, DVM, CVFT, Pet Obesity Prevention
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, the Foundation has invested more than $149 million to date in nearly 3,000 studies to advance the health and well-being of animals around the world. Learn more at morrisanimalfoundation.org.
Media Contact: Dr. Kelly Diehl, DVM, MS
