The RVC calls for canine health research funding data

Researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) are calling on specialist veterinary and non-university organisations that carry out research into canine health and welfare to participate in a study which seeks to inform future funding strategies. The first phase of research is being conducted this January and February 2023 and will analyse the amount and distribution of UK canine health research funding over the past decade. Independent charities supporting canine health research tend to identify funding priorities aligned with their own strategy and scope, taking account of independent peer review from experts in the field of research. However as there are many research funders working independently, some important research topics may be overlooked, whilst sometimes separately funded projects can inadvertently overlap in their work. There are varying levels of involvement for pet owners through different organisations. All of this means that there is potential that some elements with real-world impact may be overlooked. This study endeavours to investigate these issues and consider how resources are prioritised across different areas of canine research and types of problems.