Cougars hunting for chunky dogs
A new study underway by veterinarian Melissa Tropf is looking for canine volunteers to determine if a dog's heart reacts the same as a human's while carrying a few extra pounds.
Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine's study is looking for answers. The study asks: "If dogs carry a few extra pounds, do they get the increased cardiac risk condition known as metabolic syndrome like people do?"
Tropf is seeking dogs for a free cardiovascular exam and cardiac ultrasound. Eligible dogs must be overweight for their size but weigh less than 25 pounds.
“Ideally, we’d like owners to shoot a photo of their dog and email it to us after making contact so we can determine their dog’s eligibility and save an unnecessary trip to WSU’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital,” Tropf said.
"Dogs accepted in the study will receive a free cardiovascular examination, echocardiogram, ECG, blood pressure measurement and a complete blood and urine work-up, too," a WSU spokesperson said.
For more information contact Raychel Fairchild at rfairchild@vetmed.wsu.edu or by calling 509-335-3209.
For more information contact Raychel Fairchild at rfairchild@vetmed.wsu.edu or by calling 509-335-3209.