SUPPORT COMPARATIVE ONCOLOGY
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UC DAVIS SCHOOL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
Dogs Helping Humans Find A Cure
The bond we share with our dogs goes beyond companionship; it extends into our shared fight against cancer. Canines and humans are 95% genetically similar, they live in the same environment as we do, and they naturally develop similar types of cancer. This shared biology means that advances in treating canine cancer can often lead to breakthroughs in human cancer therapies. Cancer treatments that are safe and effective for dogs often work well for humans too.
Comparative oncology is the study of naturally occurring cancers in animals, especially dogs, as models for human disease. By quickening the pace of drug development, this research offers significant benefits. Experimental drugs typically undergo animal testing in mice first, but dogs, with their genetic similarity to humans, often provide better indicators of a drug's potential.
Our amazing dogs serve as therapy, guide, and service animals, but equally important is their role in advancing cancer research, which benefits them and their human companions. Cats, although less commonly used, are valuable in studies of cancers for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and mammary tumors, which are also found in humans.
With over 6 million dogs and cats projected to get a cancer diagnosis this year and over 2 million people, the need for clinical trials and research efforts is urgent. This is not animal testing; the animals involved in clinical trials have developed cancer naturally and are offered access to cutting-edge therapies that may not otherwise be available.
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, consistently ranked the top veterinary center in the country, is at the forefront of comparative oncology research. With state-of-the-art facilities and an exemplary research team, they’re making significant advances in cancer treatments that benefit both pets and humans.
Nearly everyone has been touched by cancer, either personally or through a loved one. As a breast cancer survivor who has lost many loved ones, including my cherished dog, to this devastating disease, I’m a passionate advocate for this cause. When I learned about the promising research in comparative oncology at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, I reached out to them to lend my support. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience, knowing its significance in advancing cancer treatments for our pets and ourselves. I'll be sharing links to clinical trials in progress at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and highlighting special features of their program.
A special fund, Chloe’s Cause, a charitable fund in honor of my dog, directly benefits the UC Davis Comparative Oncology Program. Donations may be made through this link, which directs you to the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine's secure gift-giving portal: https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.
Thank you for supporting this life-saving research!