Canine Clinical Trials

Why enroll your dog in a clinical trial?

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumor of dogs. Nearly 10,000 dogs are diagnosed with this cancer each year.  The incidence of osteosarcoma in dogs is anywhere from 10-50x higher than in humans.  Research in dogs will one day mean better treatment for kids.

Enrolling a dog in a clinical trial can offer several potential benefits to both the individual pet and the broader veterinary community. Here are some reasons why pet owners may consider enrolling their dogs in clinical trials:

• Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments: Clinical trials often investigate novel treatments, therapies, or medications that are not yet available to the general public. By participating in a clinical trial, pet owners may gain access to potentially more effective or advanced treatments for their dog's condition.

• Contributing to Scientific Knowledge: Clinical trials are essential for advancing veterinary medicine. By participating, pet owners help researchers gather data and evidence that can lead to new understandings of diseases, improved treatments, and better overall care for animals in the future.

• Expert Monitoring and Care: Dogs enrolled in clinical trials receive close monitoring and care from experienced veterinarians and researchers. This regular attention can be beneficial in managing the dog's health and detecting any changes or side effects early on.

• Potential Cost Savings: In some cases, the cost of participating in a clinical trial may be partially or fully covered by the sponsoring organization. This can ease the financial burden on pet owners, especially when dealing with expensive medical treatments.

• Supportive Community: Pet owners in clinical trials become part of a supportive community of other caregivers and veterinary professionals who are invested in finding solutions and improving the health outcomes for animals.

• Personal Satisfaction: Knowing that they are actively contributing to the advancement of veterinary medicine and potentially helping other animals in the future can be personally rewarding for pet owners.

Before enrolling a dog in a clinical trial, it's crucial for pet owners to thoroughly understand the study's purpose, potential risks, and benefits. They should also discuss the decision with their primary veterinarian to ensure it aligns with their dog's specific health needs and well-being. Clinical trials typically have specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, so not all dogs will be eligible for every study. Therefore, it's essential to work closely with the research team to determine the most suitable options for the dog's condition.