Three Things Pet Owners Need to Know About... Clinical Trials

The Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph is currently conducting more than 25 companion animal-related clinical trials. Each study aims to help advance medical treatments that can improve the health or quality of life for our pets.  


 

What is a clinical trial? 

 

Clinical trials are research studies used in all specialties of human and veterinary medicine to evaluate new medical devices, vaccines, diagnostic tests and treatments. These trials may investigate new types of surgical or other procedures as well as novel medical therapies for patients. 

 
What are the benefits of participating in a clinical trial?   

 

Clinical trials allow clinicians to discover new and improved ways to prevent, diagnose or treat patients. By participating in a clinical trial, your pet may benefit by: 

  • Gaining access to new treatments that are not yet available to the public
  • Obtaining expert medical care at a leading health care facility
  • Playing an active role in developing a specialized healthcare plan
  • Helping others by contributing to medical research

 

How can my pet take part in a clinical trial at OVC?  

 

Pet owners should talk to their family veterinarian about clinical trial treatment and referral options to OVC.  To see the full list of current clinical trials at OVC please visit the OVC Health Sciences Centre website:  http://bit.ly/OVCClinicalTrials 

 

Referring veterinarians please email for more information:  clinical.research@uoguelph.ca