Scientists Hope to Slow Dog Ageing With New Experimental Drug: Here’s More About It – News18

Last Updated:February 04, 2025, 11:58 IST

The goal of the drug is to slow the ageing process in dogs, allowing them to live longer, healthier lives.

A groundbreaking clinical trial is currently underway in the United States to develop a drug to potentially extend the lifespan of dogs. The trial, known as the STAY study, is being conducted by Loyal, a San Francisco-based animal health company. According to CBS News, the study is a double-blind placebo trial, meaning neither the dogs nor those administering the drug know which ones are receiving the actual medication.

At least 1,000 senior dogs have been recruited for the study. The company hopes to submit the findings for FDA approval after achieving success in preclinical and pilot studies.

Dr. Alex Robb, medical director at Goodheart Animal Health Center, Colorado, one of the clinics involved in the study, explained the process. “Once enrolled, the dogs take the medication daily for up to four years,” he said. “At the end of the study, we will finally know if this drug truly works.”

The goal of the drug is to slow the ageing process in dogs, allowing them to live longer, healthier lives. If successful, this treatment could be a breakthrough in veterinary medicine.

Eligibility for the Study

To be eligible for the study, a dog must meet the following criteria:

– Be at least 10 years old

– Weigh 6.3 kg (14 pounds) or more

– Be transferred to a study clinic for primary care

– Attend six clinic visits in the first year, followed by two visits per year for the remaining years

– Owners must also commit to the full four-year study. Researchers are still looking for more participants. If enough data is collected, Loyal could apply for conditional FDA approval by the end of the year.

Why Do Dogs Have Shorter Lifespans?

Dogs age faster than humans due to their higher metabolic rate. Their bodies function at an accelerated pace, leading to quicker wear and tear. This rapid ageing process means that even the healthiest dogs typically live only 10 to 15 years, depending on their breed and size.

While there have been significant advancements in veterinary medicine over the years, these are relatively recent compared to human medical progress. As a result, the lifespan of dogs has not increased as dramatically as human lifespans.

A Hope for Longer Lives

The STAY study aims to change this reality. Researchers hope that the new drug will slow down the ageing process, improve overall health, and extend the lifespan of dogs.

If the trial is successful, it could pave the way for new treatments that allow pet owners to spend more years with their beloved dogs. This potential breakthrough could significantly improve the quality of life for ageing dogs, giving them healthier and happier golden years.

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