In this episode of The Pet Longevity Lab, we dive into the seminal study, "Endogenous Gonadal Hormone Exposure and Bone Sarcoma Risk", authored by Dr. Dawn M. Cooley and her team from Purdue University. This pivotal research investigates the link between lifetime exposure to gonadal hormones and the risk of bone sarcoma in Rottweilers, a breed predisposed to this aggressive cancer.

We’ll explore how early gonadectomy significantly increases the lifetime risk of bone sarcoma and discuss the protective role of sex hormones in skeletal health. This study’s findings highlight the intricate connection between hormonal balance and cancer risk, providing insights into both canine and human health. We'll also examine the broader implications for pet owners and veterinarians, as well as how these results could shape future preventative strategies for osteosarcoma.

Special thanks to the authors for shedding light on the critical importance of preserving hormonal balance in pets. Join us as we unpack the science, implications, and actionable takeaways for improving pet care and wellness. Don’t miss this eye-opening episode!

In this episode of The Pet Longevity Lab, we take a deep dive into the 2023 study, "Vasectomy and Ovary-Sparing Spay in Dogs: Comparison of Health and Behavior Outcomes with Gonadectomized and Sexually Intact Dogs" by Dr. Chris Zink and colleagues. This groundbreaking research explores alternative sterilization methods like vasectomy and ovary-sparing spay (OSS) and their impact on canine health, behavior, and longevity.

We’ll examine how longer exposure to gonadal hormones influences outcomes such as reduced orthopedic issues, cancer risk, and behavioral challenges. The episode unpacks the data-driven benefits of these alternative surgical approaches compared to traditional spaying and neutering, presenting new perspectives on hormones in veterinary care.

Join us as we discuss how this study challenges conventional sterilization norms and aligns with the latest advancements in veterinary and human hormonal health. Special thanks to the authors for their pivotal contributions to pet wellness. Tune in to learn how these findings can inform better, more individualized care for your furry companions!

In this week’s episode of The Pet Longevity Lab, we continue our deep dive into bone health, building on last week's discussion. This time, we explore the impact of gonadectomy on orthopedic health and weight management in pets, using insights from the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. Discover how timing of neutering and spaying affects bone density, ligament integrity, and the risk of obesity. We’ll also discuss practical strategies for pet owners and veterinarians to mitigate these risks and promote healthier, longer lives for pets. Whether you’re a pet parent or a veterinary professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights to advance pet wellness.

Welcome to The Pet Longevity Lab, where we bridge cutting-edge science with pet care. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the fascinating world of bone health, hormonal influences, and the long-term impacts of spaying and neutering on pets.

Drawing insights from a range of groundbreaking studies—including the effects of gonadectomy in Vizslas and ovariectomy in Beagles—we explore how hormones like testosterone and estrogen are critical to bone remodeling, joint health, and overall musculoskeletal development. Learn how disrupting this delicate hormonal balance through early sterilization can lead to increased risks of joint diseases, bone cancer, and even structural imbalances.

We’ll discuss how these findings parallel human health, shedding light on the shared biology of hormone-related bone health and the potential role of hormone replacement therapy in pets. Whether you’re a pet owner or a veterinary professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the science behind your pet’s growth and development.

Special thanks to the authors of these pivotal studies for driving the conversation forward. Tune in to uncover how advancing our understanding of hormones can improve the lives of our beloved pets!

Join us on this episode of The Pet Longevity Lab as we take a deep dive into the groundbreaking 2014 study, "Evaluation of the Risk and Age of Onset of Cancer and Behavioral Disorders in Gonadectomized Vizslas." Authored by Dr. M. Christine Zink and her esteemed colleagues, this pivotal research investigates the connections between gonadectomy, cancer risks, behavioral challenges, and age of diagnosis in one of the most beloved purebred dog breeds.

We'll dissect the findings, explore their implications for veterinary care, and discuss how human health parallels, particularly regarding hormonal health, can provide insights for improving veterinary practices. Discover the nuances of this study, its critical takeaways, and how it aligns with our mission to revolutionize pet wellness through hormone replacement therapy and integrative approaches.

Tune in to learn why these findings matter not only for Vizslas but for all pet owners and veterinarians looking to make informed decisions about spay and neuter protocols. Special thanks to the authors and contributors who have paved the way for this vital discussion in veterinary science.

Welcome to "The Pet Longevity Lab", where science meets compassion to redefine pet wellness! In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the groundbreaking study, Restoration of Reproductive Hormone Concentrations in a Male Neutered Dog Improves Health, authored by Linda Brent, Elaine Lissner, and Michelle Kutzler.

This study explores how hormone restoration addressed health challenges like reduced mobility, anxiety, weight gain, and muscle atrophy—common issues resulting from early gonadectomy. We’ll break down the findings, examine the methodologies, and discuss the transformative implications of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for pets.

Brought to you by the Pet Longevity Group, this episode highlights the innovative solutions that bridge advancements in human hormone science with veterinary care, offering new hope for enhancing pet health and longevity.

Join us as we explore the science, honor the research, and chart the future of pet wellness. Subscribe now to "The Pet Longevity Lab" and be part of the revolution in pet care!

Pet Longevity is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation focused on researching and addressing the health challenges pets face after spaying or neutering. We have launched the Million Pet Study to investigate the impact of these procedures on pet health and explore the potential of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a solution. Our research draws parallels between the hormonal changes in pets post-surgery ("menopaws") and human menopause/andropause, highlighting the importance of hormones for overall well-being.

Main Themes and Key Ideas:

1. "Menopaws" and Hormonal Imbalance:

• Pet Longevity introduces the concept of "menopaws" to describe the hormonal changes that occur in pets after spaying or neutering. This highlights the parallels with human menopause and andropause.
• These hormonal shifts can lead to various long-term health problems in pets. The organization's research aims to understand and address these consequences.
• The core idea is that removing hormone-producing organs disrupts the endocrine system, leading to issues like metabolic disorders, joint problems, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.

1. Negative Health Consequences of Spaying/Neutering:

• Traditional spaying and neutering are called into question, with the sources highlighting evidence that these procedures are linked to increased risks of various health problems.
• These problems include:
• Musculoskeletal issues: Including hip dysplasia (canine hip dysplasia frequency up to 75%) and cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture. "Neutered dogs, whether male or female, had a higher prevalence of CCL rupture than did sexually intact dogs."
• Obesity/Overweight: "Compared to intact dogs, all gonadectomy age categories showed increased risk for the development of overweight/obesity.”
• Increased Risk of Certain Cancers: Specifically, lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma, "Removing hormone-producing organs at a young age disrupts the endocrine system, leading to serious consequences like an increased risk of aggressive cancers." - Dr. Karen Becker
• Behavioral Issues: "Longer exposure to gonadal hormones, regardless of reproductive status, was associated with reduced odds of general health problems and both problematic and nuisance behaviors." and "Increasing lifetime exposure to gonadal hormones was associated with a reduction in fear and aggression-related behaviors"
• Joint Disorders "Joint disorders can shorten a dog’s useful working life and impact its role as a family member." - Hart
• The organization cites numerous studies indicating the correlation between neuter status and increased risks of health problems.

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) as a Solution:

• Pet Longevity's primary research focus is on the use of HRT to counteract the negative effects of "menopaws."
• We believe that HRT can restore hormonal balance, prevent diseases, and improve the overall quality of life for pets.
• The organization is gathering data and testing innovative HRT protocols. Their work includes "ongoing studies that focus on safe, effective dosing and implementation of HRT for pets."
• One case study noted that "weekly subcutaneous administration of testosterone cypionate (0.5 mg/kg) significantly reduced pain and increased muscle mass, thereby improving mobility."

1. The Million Pet Study:

• The study draws inspiration from large-scale human studies, like the Million Women Study, reflecting the organization's commitment to applying human medical advancements to veterinary science.
• We actively encourage pet owners and veterinarians to participate in and contribute to the research through their website.

Tune in weekly for a new Deep dive!