Leading the pack in research

Of all of our activities, Hope Kennels is most proud about our commitment to the health of the breed. Learn more about how our dogs have contributed to the health of the breed below.  

Microphthalmia Syndrome (fka Puppy Eye Syndrome) research, PennVet 

Three dogs from Hope Kennels (Kirby, Beiju, and Jewel) participated in genetic marker research at PennVet in Philadelphia.  This trio took a road trip to meet the research team and provide DNA, blood, and skin samples to the research team.  The team mapped the DNA from Beiju (a healthy PWD) and Jewel (an affected PWD) to create the DNA marker test that is now used across the breed, ending a decades long scourge within the breed.  Interestingly, this research is also informing health research for humans, for whom microphthalmia is a very common birth defect.  You can learn more about our impact here.

Hemangiosarcoma research, University of Minnesota 

In the spring of 2024, Kirby participated in the Shine On Study at the University of Minnesota. In this phase of the study, healthy dogs who exhibit a high risk profile for hermangio were given an experimental treatment called eBAT which the researchers hope will reduce the future risk of the dogs developing this cancer.  Kirby spent 3 days at the U of MN receiving the treatments and will be monitored by the U of MN the rest of his life.  You can learn more about this important research here.

Blood Donor, Blue Pearl Pet Hospital

Kirby and his feline brother Crookshanks, were blood donors for Blue Pearl Pet Hospital in Arden Hills, Minnesota.  They donated every 6-8 weeks for two years.  At the time, Kirby was the first Portuguese Water Dog that was part of their blood donor program.  Our reason for donating was Kirby’s daughter Jewel, who needed a platelet donation when she was spayed in 2018 and we wanted to pay forward the gift these other dogs had given Jewel, so when we were able, we did!