The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study (GRLS) sent me all
the information I needed as her owner along with a box filled with collection and sample materials. As her veterinarian, I also enrolled myself to participate in the study. I must admit, it’s a bit labor intensive handling all the samples and requirements. As for Keeva, it wasn’t too big an ordeal — her biggest complaint was going without breakfast the morning we collected her samples. We collected her blood samples, fecal and urine samples
and hair and nail clippings. We measured her weight and height and answered many detailed questions regarding her physical exam and medical history. As her owner, I also completed another questionnaire regarding the details of her diet, environment, activity level and behavior. Between the two, the study records a massive amount of data. As for those lab samples we couriered out, the GRLS did
email a variety of lab results back to my hospital within a few days so we could include that data in Keeva’s medical record. Thankfully, she is the picture of health thus far. But I know, one day, she may develop a simple mass or a serious cancer. As a study participant, I’ve agreed to send them a portion of any tumors we might remove, even if they are benign, and to keep them informed of any health problems along the way. As long as there are no tumors or cancers, I simply repeat the collection of samples and data once every year. The GRLS does reimburse participating owners $75 to defray some of the cost of this service. Or, the owner may
www.TheNewBarker.com
choose to cover the collection and participation costs and decline the $75 stipend, which puts it right back into the study coffers. The study is largely funded by the Morris Family Foundation, but is also supported by the Golden Retriever Foundation, Hill's, Petco, Antech, Zoetis (Pfizer Animal Health) and the Blue Buffalo Foundation for Canine Research. About a month after Keeva Rue’s generous donation of
samples and data, she received a nice unexpected package containing a new leash and collar, a notebook with study infor- mation and sections to collect her information over the years (for me), and a tote bag for her toys and treats when she travels. It was a thoughtful gesture in return for our efforts. But trust that we will continue to participate in this critical study, expect- ing nothing in return in the years to come. I fervently hope that the committed owners of 3000 Golden Retrievers can make this effort to help scientists find solutions to some of our most press- ing problems in canine health, most especially cancer. If you have a Golden Retriever under the age of two, please
consider joining this study. Or share this article with your friends who have Goldens. You may also help by donating to the Morris Animal Foundation and the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. U To learn more, please visit
www.caninelifetimehealth.org/
Elizabeth Baird, D.V.M. is part of The New Barker Veterinary Advisory Board. She is board certified in pain management, and practices at Country Oaks Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel. 1412 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor. 727.785.6524.
www.CountryOaksAnimalHospital.com
Winter ~ 2013 THE NEW BARKER 77
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