Clinical Trials to Improve Lives of Dogs Undergoing Chemotherapy
Two new clinical trials are being launched to improve the lives of dogs undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Developers hope that monitoring and treatment methods, which have shown promise in human cancer treatment, can also work for dogs.
The CO-PROM Study
The AURA Veterinary, in partnership with the University of Surrey, is leading a study called the Development of Canine Oncology Proxy-Reported Outcome Measure (CO-PROM). The study aims to develop tools similar to patient-reporting monitoring systems that previous research at the University of Surrey has indicated can improve chemotherapy-related symptoms and quality of life in humans.
Dog owners whose pets have been diagnosed with cancer and are receiving chemotherapy from AURA are invited to participate in the study. They will be asked to complete a daily online questionnaire for up to 21 days. Some owners will also be invited to participate in an online interview to provide feedback on the questionnaire. All participating owners will receive a £50 gift voucher.
Aspartame Clinical Trial
AURA Veterinary has also partnered with the University of Edinburgh and Leipzig University to examine whether the artificial sweetener aspartame can reduce the risk of chemotherapy-induced diarrhoea in dogs. Studies have suggested that aspartame can reduce the risk in humans.
Dogs that have been diagnosed with cancer and are receiving vincristine or doxorubicin (single-agent or CHOP-based protocol) can be enrolled at any of the three sites. The study covers the costs of both food supplements and faecal analysis. Participants who complete all stages of the study will have the cost of their initial consultation refunded.
Join the Studies
Owners can participate in the trials by emailing hello@auravet.com with either “CO-PROM study” or “Clinical trial – Aspartame” as the subject line. The closing dates for owners to join the trial are May 31 and June 30, respectively. For full eligibility criteria, visit the AURA Veterinary website.
