$10 million for animal health

One of my favorite animal organizations, and one I've frequently donated money to, is the Morris Animal Foundation. They do research into diseases affecting all kinds of animals, both wild and domestic. My particular interest has been their efforts to fight canine cancer.



MAF has just published its 2008 listing of over a hundred studies they'll be funding, and invited individuals and companies to help sponsor some of the research. I know that my dogs' insurance company, Pets Best, recently donated $1 million to MAF, as did Pfizer Animal Health.  And you can rest assured that your donation will go to fund animal research and nothing else; MAF states that 100 percent of their annual donations are used to "fund research to protect, treat and cure the world’s animals."

MAF has committed to funding more than $4.6 million in traditional animal health studies for 2008 alone and ongoing support of $10 million for these studies as they continue over the next three years. The complete list of health studies can be viewed at www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org, or request a printed health study sponsorship booklet by calling (800) 243-2345.



MAF’s 2008 selection of studies is being conducted at nearly 50 of the world’s most elite veterinary colleges, zoological institutions and scientific research centers. In addition to key facts on MAF, the sponsorship booklet details 43 canine health studies, including many crucial health and welfare issues such as behavior, cancer, heart disease, influenza, and epilepsy. Likewise, 17 feline health research studies cover asthma, cancer, kidney diseases and obesity. The selection of 11 equine studies includes research on foal diseases, laminitis, pain management and osteoarthritis. The directory also covers five health studies related to gastrointestinal disorders, nutrition, pain management and reproduction in llamas and alpacas.



The directory also details some 36 wildlife health studies covering mountain gorillas, elephants, wild cats, foxes, wolves, fish, birds, marine life, and much more. MAF is the world’s largest private source of funding for wildlife health research.

The full release is here. And if you have an animal lover on your holiday shopping list, I can't think of a better gift than a donation in their name, or in the memory of a lost pet.

Comments

[The OTHER Pat]

I have to name a life insurance beneficiary. I'm unmarried and childless, and I'm seriously considering naming Morris Animal Foundation as a major beneficiary. Thanks for the update - I'll go read up on their programs.

[Bonni]

Wish I could use Pets Best . . . but they won't insure my dog as she is 9.

[shibadiva]

Some of this research will ultimately benefit humans. It isn't an us-or-them issue. It really is win-win.



I realized when I wrote the above that it sounds like a justification for animal research as we currently know it - for the benefit of humans. But no, this starts out to help them, and ends up helping everyone. Give and you shall receive...

[Ron]

I work for a discount pet supply company (actually many animals large and small supply company) and we have a place on our website where donations to MAF can be added to an order. We have been a fan for many years and our customers are the greatest. Not only do they give regularly to MAF but anytime we sponsor a drive for a charity. Two years ago, we did the same for Katrina Victims and the response was phenomenal. Thanks for bringing attention to this organization.