Nestlé Purina PetCare and the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine have announced a groundbreaking five-year collaboration focused on advancing scientific knowledge and improving urinary health in dogs and cats. This partnership, supported by a nearly $1 million grant from Purina, aims to enhance the G.V. Ling Urinary Stone Analysis Laboratory (USAL) at UC Davis, which specializes in analyzing urinary stones and understanding their formation.
This collaboration promises to revolutionize veterinary urology by providing invaluable insights into the relationship between diet, environmental factors, and urinary tract conditions in pets. The USAL, under this agreement, will offer free analysis and interpretation of up to 800 new stone submissions per year to veterinary practitioners. This wealth of data will be crucial in unraveling the complexities of urolithiasis (urinary stone disease) and abnormal tissue mineralization, paving the way for more effective preventative management strategies.
The partnership extends beyond urinary stones. Researchers will also investigate other common urinary conditions, including feline idiopathic cystitis and urinary tract infections in dogs, exploring novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
UC Davis has a long-standing reputation for excellence in veterinary urology research and treatment. In 2022, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recognized the American College of Veterinary Nephrology and Urology (ACVNU) as a new specialty discipline, with UC Davis alumni and professor Dr. Larry Cowgill playing a pivotal role in establishing this field.
The school also boasts a renowned veterinary nutrition program, with three board-certified nutritionists leading research, clinical care, and training initiatives. The university’s 3-year residency program in nutrition is one of only six in the nation.
This strategic partnership between Purina and UC Davis holds immense potential to enhance the lives of pets and the people who love them. By fostering a deeper understanding of urinary health, this collaboration will empower veterinary practitioners with evidence-based tools to better manage patients, ensuring their well-being and improving their overall quality of life.
