Cancer Research Study: How You Can Help

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We understand that participation in any study is a very personal choice, and we do not want anyone to feel guilty for choosing not to participate. However, we also know that many of you want to participate, but you may find study participation and sample submission mind-boggling or you may run into other impediments to participation. The Cancer Studies Task Team has worked hard to simplify the process of study participation and sample submission. In addition, they have put together a Support Team of volunteers who are trained to help guide you through the process of study participation. But much more remains to be done.

We need help from the entire community of Flat-Coated Retriever owners. Here is what you can do to help:

If your dog has cancer, please consider participating in our studies. We have all been there, and we know how hard it is to focus on anything else when your dog is sick. But your companion could make a difference to the future health and longevity of the breed. Your dog could leave a Legacy of Hope. The members of the Support Team are ready to help you both in dealing with the disease and in participating in our studies (if you so choose). The Support Team contact information is at https://fcrsa.org/important-health-contacts/.   All contacts are completely confidential.

We are asking everyone to participate in public outreach:

• If you know someone with an ailing dog, please reach out and help your friend to participate at a time when the details of study participation may seem overwhelming.
• If you are a breeder, please reach out to your puppy owners with the cancer study information and encourage them to participate.
• Please distribute the cancer study materials in regional newsletters and at club events. Regional clubs can reach some Flat-Coated Retriever owners that the FCRSA does not. Contact Ingrid Sareliusfor the latest materials at isarelius@rochester.rr.com.

Please help us understand why participation is low. Are the studies and study needs clear? Is it difficult to get your vet to help? Have you had any problems with tissue sampling or submission? Have you encountered problems in dealing with the researchers? What do you think are the reasons for low participation? E-mail your feedback to Ingrid Sarelius (isarelius@rochester.rr.com).

Please educate yourself and your vet.

• Keep the Owner’s Flyer handy.
• Discuss your desire to participate in the various studies with your vet before any decision has to be made; leave copies of the Vet Flyers in your dog’s file.

Please share this information with other Flat-Coated Retriever owners who might not receive FCRSA mailings.