Cancer Research Project

Over the years, I have seen several cases of Mast Cell tumors in Pugs in my practice and have been contacted by owners across the country whose dogs had developed the disease. The top oncologist at Ohio State always said “Never trust a Mast Cell.” There is no highly successful chemotherapy protocol for the disease and it can recur or metastasize years after diagnosis. Pugs are considered higher risk than some breeds. For that reason, the P.D.C.A. has been contacted by Waltham to be part of their canine cancer collection and research on Mast Cell tumors. Waltham has chosen several high-risk breeds and is looking to owners to participate in DNA collection, in this instance blood samples. They are funding all the research. They would like to collect DNA from 150 affected dogs and 150 controls. The affecteds can be any age but the controls need to be 10 years of age and older. The foundation is also looking for approximately 25 dogs to use in their general data base. Owners of the dogs will need to answer a questionnaire dealing with history of exposures to environmental concerns and the health of the dog. They would also need to supply registered name and number, if known. They would need to provide information on any health clearances on the dog, such as CERF or OFA and the histopathology on affected dogs. Owners of the control dogs would need to update the dog’s health information as it ages. Waltham will bank a portion of the DNA for the owner’s future use, plus they make samples available to researchers looking for DNA from specific breeds. Click here for a more detailed information brochure on the project.

Interested owners can e-mail mhuslig@k9genes.com or call (512) 858-7939 to have a collection kit mailed directly to them so their veterinarian can collect the sample.

Pug owners and lovers have always been willing to participate in health studies that can benefit our breed. Please plan to sign up any eligible dogs and help support this important research.

Christine Dresser D.V.M.

We need blood samples from Pugs that have never been affected with Mast Cell Tumor (primarily those that are 10 and over) and samples from dogs who have been affected by this disease. DNA will be extracted and added to a DNA library. Owners will also benefit by having access to a portion of their own dog’s DNA. Please see the following flyer for more information and check your welcome bag for exact location and time information. If you have any questions about this project please contact Martine Huslig at mhuslig@k9genes.com or call (512) 858-7939.