Canine Longevity Research
Exploring innovative solutions to help dogs live longer, healthier lives
We're Searching for an Anti-Aging Treatment for Dogs
We are a team of scientists and veterinarians in New York State who are passionate about improving the lives of dogs. Our research program, called Vaika, is dedicated to studying canine longevity and finding ways to extend dogs' lives.
What We Are Doing
For the initial stage of our research, which occurred between 2018 and 2023, we recruited 100 retired sled dogs from kennels throughout the United States. The facility included a large playground where dogs could run freely and enjoy their retirement.
We carefully monitored multiple parameters of the natural aging process in our dogs. To assess their physical and cognitive health, we used play-based tests, such as problem-solving games, and treadmill exercises.
In 2023, we completed the data collection phase. Currently we analyze the extensive amount of data we have collected to uncover new insights.
Important Note: Our dogs were not used as experimental animals
for human drug development.
They were treated with the same standards of safety and care as healthy but aging humans. All of the treatments used in our research have been clinically tested on people and were completely safe for our canine subjects.
Our dogs received state-of-the-art veterinary care provided by faculty from the School
of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University.
Our Goal:
To Slow Down Aging in Dogs
We aim to use the collected data to gain a better understanding of the aging process in dogs and explore potential treatments that could extend their lifespan and improve their quality of life.
Our Scientific Approach
Our research is based on a recent discovery that links aging to the activity of latent viruses residing in our DNA. As people age, the activation of these viruses, along with weakening immune functions, can cause progressive frailty and increase the risk of cancer and other aging-related diseases. This discovery provides an opportunity to slow down aging through antiviral treatments and immunotherapy.
Our multidisciplinary approach to studying canine aging and cancer is made possible through a partnership with leading researchers from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell and North Carolina State Universities.