Page 12 - Paws and Hooves - Autumn 2022

ACT funds important research

he RVC is a leading veterinary research centre, producing research of international quality.
T Research improves diagnoses, treatments and outcomes for a variety of farm, sports and

pet animals. Sharing discoveries with scientists in human medicine increases the value of
veterinary research. There are often similarities in how illnesses present in different species
and understanding these can be a pivotal key to unlocking healthy futures for us all.

Finding new ways to samples, enabling researchers • evaluate the likelihood of
a patient developing side
to investigate laboratory
treat epilepsy techniques to differentiate effects from medications.
between cancer and non-cancer
RVC researchers and clinicians causes. These findings could Understanding canine
have devoted more than result in a quicker diagnosis of stomach cancer
a decade to improving our the cause without any stress or
knowledge of epilepsy in dogs discomfort to the patient. How this type of cancer
and cats. By understanding progresses is currently unclear.
this chronic disorder, new Autoimmune diseases There is a lack of effective
technology and techniques can therapy, with no established
be developed to aid long-term The RVC is investigating chemotherapy or surgical
epilepsy management. different autoimmune treatments. There are also no
A pericardial effusion diseases affecting blood cells, diagnostic markers that can be
including Immune Mediated
biobank Thrombocytopenia (ITP) and used to prevent this disease from
taking hold.
Immune Mediated Haemolytic
Pericardial effusion is a life- Anaemia (IMHA). Left-over blood
threatening condition found in samples will facilitate research This new research project will
dogs. It affects the pericardium projects between the RVC and expand our understanding of this
- a fluid-filled sac-like structure veterinarians in general practice. disease in dogs. It could also
which protects the heart. In 2/3 These research projects will: help doctors treat the disease
of cases, the underlying cause in humans. Advancements will
is cancer. But 1/3 of cases are have a huge impact on outcomes
not cancerous and have a • investigate underlying for our pets, as well as help
better prognosis. Treatment genetic causes/novel clinicians guide owners when
involves draining the fluid markers that predict making decisions.
around the heart. This new responses to treatment
research project will collect fluid
Become an ACT Tailwagger for just £5 per month

The community where pets help pets

Tailwaggers are a vital part of the RVC Animal Care Trust, supporting other pets and the
development of pioneering veterinary medicine. To join our community simply join online

at rvc.ac.uk/act/tailwaggers and your pet will become an official ACT Tailwagger

WHAT YOU RECEIVE AS A MEMBER OF THIS GIVING CLUB

• An exclusive ‘I help my pals’ Tailwaggers tag for your pet’s collar

• Updates by mail and email on how you’re making a difference

• Regular behind-the-scenes updates from the RVC hospitals
• Exclusive stories from the pets you have helped