A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota is testing a new approach to early cancer detection for dogs at risk for developing diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The study, funded by the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) and the Golden Retriever Foundation, is named "test and intervene," and uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze pieces of DNA fragments in blood.

 Findings may help identify dogs at higher risk for DLBCL and potentially offer an avenue for cancer prevention.

DLBCL is a very aggressive form of cancer and is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in dogs and humans.

 It is typically treated with “CHOP” chemotherapy protocols incorporating the drugs cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin (hydroxydaunorubicin), vincristine (Oncovin), and prednisone. According to Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, the CHOP treatment method has cured about 30-40% of humans with DLBCL, but less than 1-2% of dogs. The university believes that this disparity in cure rates may be due in part to the fact that humans receive all of the drugs in CHOP all on the same day, whereas dogs receive the drugs one at a time at weekly intervals.

This study is currently tapping into MAF’s ongoing Golden Retriever Lifetime Study to identify DNA patterns in the dogs' blood before cancer development. "Morris Animal Foundation is proud to continue our partnership with the Golden Retriever Foundation and extend the impact of the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study with this important research on canine lymphoma," said Kathy Tietje, MBA, PhD, chief program officer for Morris Animal Foundation, in a news release.

Jaime Modiano, VMD, PhD, analyzes a sample in the Masonic Cancer Center at the University of Minnesota. (Photo courtesy of Morris Animal Foundation)

"When given the opportunity to provide significant funding for this study, the Golden Retriever Foundation was excited to be a part of LyRA (project) as well as a continued partnership with Morris Animal Foundation," said Christine Miele, president of the Golden Retriever Foundation. "Lymphoma sadly affects about one in eight dogs and results in both expense and loss of companionship. We are looking forward to the day of early detection and the application of prevention and treatment."

MAF and the Golden Retriever Foundation are hoping this research can extend to other mammals including cats, endangered species, and even humans. Another goal is to expand the research for insights into aging, cancer risk, and other chronic conditions beyond detecting DLBCL.

"The LyRA test will categorize dogs into low or high risk for developing this form of cancer and will guide in the creation of prevention strategies for dogs deemed high risk," said Jaime Modiano, VMD, PhD, the study's principal investigator and Perlman Professor of oncology and comparative medicine, and the director of Animal Cancer Care and Research Program at the University of Minnesota. “We want to be very mindful about how everything we do has the potential to promote graceful aging, not only for our domestic companions but also for other animals that make the world a place that we all want to live in.”

Novel research leverages AI to identify dogs at higher risk for cancer. News release. Morris Animal Foundation. March 26, 2024. Accessed March 27, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/novel-research-leverages-ai-to-identify-dogs-at-higher-risk-for-cancer-302099825.html

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Lymphoma Research Foundation. Accessed March 27, 2024. 

https://www.lymphoma.org/understanding-lymphoma/aboutlymphoma/nhl/dlbcl/

Canine B-cell lymphoma clinical trials. Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. Accessed March 27, 2024. 

https://vet.purdue.edu/wcorc/clinical-trials/canine-b-cell-lymphoma.php#:~:text=Diffuse%20large%20B%2Dcell%20lymphoma%20(DLBCL)%20is%20the%20most,ncovin)%2C%20and%20p%20prednisone

Articles

Morris Animal Foundation and Golden Retriever Foundation fund a study that examines dogs at high risk for developing diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Leveraging artificial intelligence for early canine cancer detection

Researchers from the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph recently published the results of 2 surveys focusing on dogs and cats last year to see what information clients prefer when considering weight loss recommendations from their veterinarian in the 

Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association

. The surveys involved over 1000 participants living in Canada who were asked to rank various health issues that could result from obesity from most to least importance.

According to the results, from the cat owner, the impact of obesity on their pets life expectancy was found to be the most important factor to encourage the participants to work on weight management for obese felines for 32.6% of participants.

 The factors following life expectancy were cost of food (20.4%), future quality of life (20.38%), change in cost of pets food (18.9%), and future mobility (14.3%).

“Findings suggest that cat owners consider the impact on life expectancy to be most important when considering whether to follow a veterinarian's recommendation for their cat to lose weight. When veterinary professionals are communicating about obesity in practice, there is the potential to increase owner engagement in weight management efforts for cats by emphasizing the obesity-related information owners prefer to receive,” researchers stated within the study.

For dog parents, the most important weight-related concern was also life expectancy (28.6%). Participants also said developing arthritis (19.2%), future quality of life (18.9%), change in costs of food (18.9%), and future mobility (14.3%).

The questions for the survey were designed by Lighthouse Studio and was provided in both English and French. Participants were randomly distributed 1 of 3 discrete choice method (DCM) studies. If a participant indicated ownership of at least 1 cat, they became eligible to be randomized into the study.

 They were then asked to complete a questionnaire of 3 sections, collecting demographic information, discrete choice exercise to determine what obesity-related content is important to the owner, and then a dichotomous question to learn more about the participants previous experience receiving a obesity diagnosis of their own. 

The researchers also used social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram that included a link to the survey and a statement encouraging anyone reading to share the link. The teams also reached out to 36 private and public pet organizations such as humane societies, veterinary clinics and colleges, pet stores, pet-oriented social media influencers, and pet-related newsletters, clubs, and blogs to share the link. Out of the 26 that were asked to share, 15 participated in the distribution.

 The survey also gave participants the chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift card.

“Given the implications for pet health and well-being, client communication regarding obesity is a professional responsibility for veterinary professionals,” the canine obesity study said.

The studies were funded on gifts from Nestle Purina PetCare Canada to OVC, but the company was not involved in the development of the survey, data management or analysis, interpretation, or writing of the manuscript. The researchers disclosed that they did assist with the distributions of the surveys.

New study finds that concerns about shorter lifespans for pets can drive owner action on obesity. News release. University of Guelph. March 21, 2024. Accessed March 27, 2024. 

Sutherland KA, Coe JB, Catherine, Shepherd ML, Grant LE. Information about life expectancy related to obesity is most important to cat owners when deciding whether to act on a veterinarian’s weight loss recommendation. 

. Published online March 13, 2024:1-10. doi:https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.23.12.0703

Davies AR, Sutherland KA, Groves CNH, Grant LE, Shepherd ML, Coe JB. Impact on life expectancy was the most important information to clients when considering whether to take action for an overweight or obese dog. 

. Published online March 19, 2024:1-10. doi:https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.23.12.0697

Results found that life expectancy is one of the most important factors for pet owners to participate in their pet’s weight management 

Short lifespans for pets can compel clients to act on obesity, researchers discover 

The arrival of new veterinary clinics and pharmacies in communities nationwide marks a significant leap forward in enhancing pet care and broadening service accessibility. These state-of-the-art establishments feature cutting-edge technology and skilled veterinary professionals committed to providing top-notch medical attention. Through their unwavering dedication, these veterinary service providers not only promote pet well-being but also strengthen the bond between humans and their beloved animals.

Here are 3 recent clinic and pharmacy openings across the United States:

Small Door Veterinary in Bethesda, Maryland

Small Door Inc, a tech-enabled, membership-based veterinary care provider opened its first Maryland location in Bethesda at 10253 Old Georgetown Rd in the Wildwood Shopping Center. This marks Small Door’s 11th practice in the United States and like its other locations, this new Maryland clinic offers 1 free exam per year, same or next day appointments, 24/7 telemedicine, and more with its annual membership program.

"We've completed over 10,000 exams since we launched in DC just a year ago, so we’re excited to extend our presence in the market by bringing Small Door to the Bethesda community,” said Josh Guttman, cofounder and CEO of Small Door, in a company release.

The Bethesda team will be led by Heidi Heller, DVM, CCRP, USDA Accredited, as managing veterinarian.

 Heller is originally from the metro DC area and attended the University of Maryland for her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and received her veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.

“When our pets are healthy, comfortable, and fit, they keep us healthy, active and fit too,” Heller said. “As a native of the DMV area, it’s personally gratifying to be helping foster a healthier community here in Bethesda.”

Vets Pets expands its Wake Veterinary Medical Center in Wilson, North Carolina

Vets Pets, a North Carolina cooperative network of veterinary hospitals, has made a significant expansion and rebranding of one of its flagship facilities: Wake Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care will now be known as Wake Veterinary Medical Center, and has expanded into a second 6,000 square-foot building with new specialty service offerings including imaging, internal medicine, and oncology.

The Wake Veterinary Medical Center has 17 veterinarians and an emergency department that operates 24/7 with in-house surgeries and complex treatments.

"Our mission at Wake Vet has always been to offer top-quality full-service animal healthcare at an affordable price," said George Ghneim, DVM, PhD, partner at Wake Veterinary Medical Center, in a news release. "The new Wake Vet embodies our dedication to complete care, ensuring that every pet receives the expertise and attention they deserve, all under one roof."

Wedgewood is the nation’s leading provider of high-quality compounded medications for animals and has announced business plans to open a new state-of-the-art facility in Chandler, Arizona at 1680 E. Northrop Blvd. The 90,000-square-foot veterinary pharmacy is expected to open in early 2025 and create 250 jobs by 2027. This location in Arizona will serve the western United States and offer rapid delivery and local pick-up options for pet owners.

“Our new pharmacy reflects our deep commitment to the veterinary community and our dedication to harnessing the exceptional talents of our local team,” said Marcy Bliss, CEO of Wedgewood, in a release. “By expanding in Chandler, we're not just creating a critical hub in our national network; we’re also strengthening our connection with a community that has been key to our success.”

“We are thrilled to celebrate this important milestone as Wedgewood begins internal construction of this state-of-the-art facility,” stated Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke. “The Airpark Area employment corridor continues to garner attention from dynamic companies such as Wedgewood looking for a central location with great infrastructure and immediate access to skilled talent.”

Small Door opens first Maryland practice with new Bethesda location. News release. Small Door Inc. March 18, 2024. Accessed March 27, 2024. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240318313935/en

Dr Heidi Heller (she/her), DVM, CCRP, USDA Accredited. Small Door Veterinary. Accessed March 27, 2024. https://www.smalldoorvet.com/team/dr-heidi-heller

Vets Pets unveils Wake Veterinary Medical Centers expansion and rebranding. News release. Vets Pets. March 5, 2024. Accessed March 27, 2024. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vets-pets-unveils-wake-veterinary-medical-centers-expansion-and-rebranding-302079760.html

Wedgewood celebrates groundbreaking ceremony for new state-of-the-art veterinary pharmacy. News release. Wedgewood. February 22, 2024. Accessed March 27, 2024. https://www.wedgewoodpharmacy.com/news/press-room/wedgewood-celebrates-groundbreaking-ceremony-for-new-state-of-the-art-veterinary-pharmacy.html

Take a look at these 3 veterinary clinics and pharmacies newly opened or coming soon

Clinic center: Fresh veterinary facilities expanding medical services to pets

Arizona Humane Society's Rob & Melani Walton Papago Park Campus (Image courtesy of Arizona Humane Society) 

Arizona Humane Society (AHS) announced that its Rob & Melani Walton Papago Park Campus is now officially open. The new $51 million state-of-the-art facility was built from funds provided completely by donations from animal lovers and friends of AHS.

“As the doors of the Rob and Melani Walton Papago Park Campus open to the public, so do the possibilities for the future of animal welfare in Arizona and across the country,” said Steven Hansen, DVM, president and chief executive officer of AHS, in an organizational release.

“This transformative campus will have an undeniable positive impact on the Valley’s most vulnerable pets and the state’s future veterinarians for decades to come. Our new campus enables us with the physical resources to best serve the pets in our care and delivers a key list of improvements that will benefit pets and people alike,” he continued.

 the facility was built to maintain the health and welfare of the animals who enter the facility as well as the people taking care of them. The facility contains features such as a heavy-duty HVAC system to reduce airborne pathogen movement between separate kennel rooms, improved sanitation from drainage systems located in 90% of rooms on the campus, and hundreds of windows to increase the amount of natural light in the rooms and kennels, 5 'catios', and 13 designated play yards.

Those coming to the facility to adopt a pet will greet their new pet in the Nina Mason Pulliam P.E.T. Center. Adopters will have access to AHS’s in-house pet supply shop Petique and Echo Coffee, a locally owned and operated business that contributes 1% of every purchase to AHS.

The 5-acre campus is home to the largest shelter-based trauma and acute medical center for homeless pets in the United States, the Watts Family Medical Complex. The complex also serves as a teaching hospital to help veterinary students get the experience they need while also alleviating some of the effects of the veterinarian shortages.

Out of the pets entering the doors of AHS, 4 out of 5 need care in the Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital, designed to provide the community the chance to catch a glimpse of the work done by the professionals at AHS.

 Visitors can take a self-guided tour, and sign up with a tour guide that will show them the BISSELL Pet Foundation Spay and Neuter Clinic, where pets are prepared for surgery to help fight overpopulation.

Ryan Companies US, Inc. and AHS officially broke ground 7 years ago in November 2021 to build “the animal welfare campus of the future.” AHS also commissioned artist Ula Nero to create portraits found throughout the campus and the designated architectural partner was 

“At Ryan, one of our core values is stewardship, meaning we are dedicated to spending our time and financial resources on behalf of causes and organizations that directly help our community,” said Chuck Carefoot, southwest region president of Ryan Companies.

“Pets are near and dear to our hearts, positively impact our individual well-being, and our overall public health. We are thrilled to have completed the Arizona Humane Society’s Rob and Melani Walton Papago Park Campus at a substantial savings to the organization and for the benefit of our entire community.”

Arizona Humane Society’s Rob & Melani Walton Papago Park Campus now open. News release. Arizona Humane Society. March 26, 2024. Accessed March 26, 2024.

Spay & Neuter. BISSELL Pet Foundation. Accessed March 26, 2024. https://www.bissellpetfoundation.org/programs/spay-and-neuter/

The $51 million facility was designed to improve the health and welfare of pets, and those who care for them 

Arizona Humane Society opens state-of-the-art campus

The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), Chewy Health, and MentorVet announced a partnership to create MentorVet Lead. The program, sponsored by Chewy Health, will provide support to ACVIM diplomates who have received their board certification within the past 5 years, through scholarships, peer support, coaching, and mentorship.

"We are excited to partner with MentorVet to expand access to mentorship and educational opportunities in veterinary specialty medicine," said Sarah Gillings, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), president of the ACVIM Board of Regents, in an organizational release.

 "This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to advance the practice of veterinary specialty medicine and support the next generation of veterinary professionals beyond their clinical knowledge.”

 the mentees in the new 6-month program will complete online learning modules focusing on stress management, leadership, team building, mentorship, and budgeting. The participating mentees will also meet with each other virtually monthly to review content and compare experiences they have in their practice. Additionally, the mentees will have access to mental health and financial coaching that is individualized to each participant and a mentorship with more established ACVIM diplomates

“At Chewy Health, we are passionate about providing veterinary professionals with access to the education and resources they need to thrive in practice," said Mita Malhotra, president of Chewy Health, in the release.

 "We are thrilled to be expanding our ongoing partnership with MentorVet to support the unique mentorship and wellbeing needs of ACVIM specialists. These critical tools will help our participants take care of themselves while delivering the highest quality medicine for their patients."

The program was created to meet the specific needs of the ACVIM diplomates and to meet the needs of support for mid-career veterinarians. The MentorVet Lead pilot program began on March 25, 2024, and will end on September 15, 2024.

The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Partners with MentorVet and Chewy Health to Launch Mentorship Program for New Diplomates. News release. March 25, 2024. Accessed March 26, 2024.

MentorVet Lead will provide support to new recently certified ACVIM diplomates 

New mentorship program launches for new ACVIM diplomates 

dvm360 student ambassadors discuss PBL curriculum with fellow stuents 

PBL curriculum from a veterinary student's perspective

Katrina Billote and Mariana Martinez, Western University of Health Sciences, DVM 2025, dvm360 student ambassadors, interviewed fellow students Michelle McCorkell and Haley Salas, Western University of Health Sciences, DVM 2025 to discuss a primarily problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum from a students’ point of view.

During the interview, the students discuss the curriculum structure, how it prepares students for clinical years, their favorite parts of the curriculum, and their advice for students entering a veterinary school with PBL components.

At Western University, we utilize the PBL Curriculum in order to organize basic science learning activities so each of our PBL cases we take big concepts and break them down into smaller scientific concepts [and] analyzing basic sciences that you would learn in undergrad such as anatomy, microbiology, nutrition, and physiology, and all that fun stuff so every week we are able to break those down and then after 2 cases, you are tested on those exact concepts. 

For example, if we had a case that was based off of pancreatitis, you might get anatomy questions on blood supply to the pancreas. By doing that, we are able to take smaller concepts and put them into a whole case and apply them into clinics later on. 

dvm360 student ambassadors Katrina Billote and Mariana Martinez take a deep dive into Problem Based Learning Curriculum with fellow Western University of Health Sciences students