Golden Retriever Lifetime Study

Heroes Among Us

We lost our first golden, Shadow, to cancer in 2013. Shortly after saying goodbye, we welcomed puppy ZuZu into the pack, bringing new energy (and a bit of chaos) to Daisy and Paczki. Around that same time, we became increasingly aware of how prevalent cancer is among golden retrievers, with some research estimating rates as high as 60 percent. That reality led us to start paying closer attention and learning more.

During that search, we discovered the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, launched by the Morris Animal Foundation to better understand the nutritional, environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors behind cancer and other diseases in dogs. The study was still seeking participants, and once Daisy and Paczki were past the age cutoff, ZuZu was enrolled and accepted as Hero #2334.

Each year, we complete detailed surveys covering ZuZu’s health, behavior, environment, and lifestyle. We also make annual vet visits where ZuZu proudly does her part by donating blood, nail clippings, fur, and more — even if it means skipping breakfast.

The dogs enrolled in the study are called “Heroes,” and their families are known as Supporters. Daisy and Paczki proudly support ZuZu, and we are deeply grateful to the veterinarians, researchers, and supporters working toward answers. Here’s hoping their work leads us closer to preventing the cancers that have taken far too many of our beloved canine companions.

For more moments like this, please visit our Trog’s Dogs Galleries.

These images are part of an ongoing tribute to the golden retrievers who have filled our days with joy, love, and meaning.

You can explore books, cards, and other ways to share that golden spirit in our General Store.