Advancing Veterinary Science Through Compassion
At Caring Pathways, our mission is rooted in compassionate end-of-life care for beloved pets and their families. But our commitment to improving the lives of animals extends beyond the homes we visit. Since our founding, we’ve proudly supported the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF), a global leader in veterinary research dedicated to preventing and curing animal disease.
Our partnership with MAF reflects our belief that high-quality hospice and palliative care must go hand-in-hand with progress in veterinary science. By supporting the foundation’s work, particularly in the areas of cancer and age-related diseases, we contribute to a future where pets can live longer, healthier, and more comfortably.
Written by Dr. Chelsea McGivney, Caring Pathways General Manager
A Shared Commitment to Aging Pets
As an end-of-life care practice, we witness the challenges that come with aging in our canine and feline companions every day. Many of the conditions we manage, such as osteoarthritis, cognitive decline, and cancer, are also the focus of research initiatives funded by Morris Animal Foundation. That overlap makes our support personal and deeply aligned with our mission.
Over the years, Caring Pathways has provided ongoing financial support to MAF. In honor of each pet we serve, we donate to the MAF to help fund critical studies that improve the lives of senior pets. It’s a heartfelt tribute to their legacy and a reflection of our commitment and investment in compassionate, evidence-based care.
Supporting the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study
Within the past year, our focus has sharpened on one of MAF’s most ambitious and impactful projects: the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study (GRLS). This landmark study follows more than 3,000 golden retrievers throughout their lives, collecting data on genetics, diet, environment, and health to better understand the development of cancer and other chronic conditions.
To support the GRLS community of pet parents, Caring Pathways has developed a unique educational initiative: a monthly webinar series delivered by our team of veterinary experts. These webinars are designed to provide in-depth, accessible information on topics that matter most to owners caring for aging dogs, particularly those participating in the study.
Expert-Led Webinars That Educate and Empower
Our webinar series has become a valued resource for the GRLS cohort. Each session is created to provide actionable guidance, emotional support, and science-backed information to help owners make informed decisions and provide the best care possible for their senior dogs.
Topics we’ve covered so far include:
- Pain and Quality of Life in Senior Dogs: Helping owners assess and manage pain to improve daily comfort and overall well-being.
- Osteoarthritis: Understanding the progression of joint disease and exploring both medical and at-home strategies for mobility support.
- Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS): Recognizing the signs of cognitive decline and addressing behavioral changes with empathy and intervention.
- Hemangiosarcoma: A special presentation on this aggressive cancer, its treatment options, and palliative care approaches.
- Caring for the Caregiver: Recognizing the emotional and physical toll of caregiving and offering resources for self-care and support.
Each webinar is tailored in collaboration with the GRLS team and participating owners, allowing us to respond directly to the needs and concerns of this engaged and dedicated community.
Looking Ahead
Our collaboration with the Morris Animal Foundation is far from over. We have more webinars planned, and we remain responsive to the evolving questions and interests of the GRLS participants. As veterinary hospice professionals, we understand that caring for aging pets is both a science and an art, and we are honored to share our knowledge with a community so deeply invested in both.
Beyond the GRLS project, we will continue to support MAF’s broader research goals through financial contributions and advocacy. Whether funding groundbreaking studies or delivering free educational content, Caring Pathways is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of pets today and for generations to come.
Join Us in Supporting the Future of Pet Health
We encourage our clients, colleagues, and fellow animal lovers to learn more about the Morris Animal Foundation and the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. Every donation, every data point, and every educational moment brings us one step closer to a world where pets live longer, healthier lives. To learn more or get involved, visit www.morrisanimalfoundation.org.
Together, we can advance the science of compassionate care.
