A clinical trial is currently being conducted in the United States to assess a medication that has the potential to prolong the lives of dogs.

This research, referred to as the STAY trial, is organized by Loyal, an animal health company based in San Francisco.

The double-blind, placebo-controlled study includes at least one thousand senior dogs, with the goal of obtaining approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) based on the results.

The trial follows positive outcomes from preclinical and pilot studies.

As noted by Alex Robb, the medical director of Goodheart Animal Health Center in Colorado, the participating dogs will receive daily doses of the medication over a four-year span, along with regular clinical evaluations.

Researchers will assess whether the drug significantly affects longevity after the study concludes.

To be eligible for the trial, dogs must be a minimum of ten years old and weigh at least fourteen pounds.

Owners are required to transfer their pet’s primary care to a participating clinic and commit to multiple veterinary appointments throughout the four-year period.

The first year entails six visits, with two visits needed each subsequent year.

The study aims to explore factors that contribute to aging in dogs, including their higher metabolic rates compared to humans.

Despite advancements in veterinary medicine that have enhanced canine healthcare, the overall lifespan of dogs has not kept pace with the increasing lifespans of humans.

Loyal plans to utilize the gathered data to seek conditional FDA approval for the drug by year's end.

Recruitment for the trial is ongoing at various clinics nationwide.