Results of ACAHF survey to improve pet health

The Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation (ACAHF) promotes better pet health through science.  We raise funds for important research with the aim of improving the prevention, treatment, and long-term health outcomes of Australian companion animals - primarily cats and dogs.

In 2021 the ACAHF surveyed Australian veterinarians, including veterinary researchers, to identify the companion animal diseases which cause Australian vets the most concern.

The results are in. The top five include:

• Atopic and allergic skin diseases
• Neoplastic diseases and treatment
• Behavioural problems - causes and interventions
• Canine ehrlichiosis
• Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)

We are conscious that, as important as this raw list is, more specific diseases are likely to be more productive targets of research. Other factors that will be considered are which research topics are unlikely to attract commercial or human medical funding and therefore may depend more on dedicated veterinary funding.  To assist us in directing funds to the most important companion animal disease research in the most effective way, we have asked for feedback from veterinary researchers to determine how these diseases could be ranked in importance.  Once this work is finalised, we will look to raise additional funding for research into two diseases from this top five list, as nominated by the Australian veterinary community.

To learn more about the work of the ACAHF please visit: www.acahf.org or contact us at info@acahf.org

The Directors of the Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation, Dr Liz Walker, Dr Graham Swinney, Dr Maureen Revington, Dr Philip Brain, Dr Garth McGilvray, Dr Alistair Webb and Prof Jacqueline Norris, thank you for your support.