Seven cardiology experts from the UK, including a University of Glasgow expert, have signed up to take part in the largest ever global canine study.

Twenty-six investigators from 10 countries across the globe gathered in Copenhagen in September this year for the commencement of QUEST (Quality of Life Ex-tension of Survival Time). QUEST is a study that aims to determine how certain products may effect long-term survival and quality of life for dogs with Mitral Valve Disease (MVD).

QUEST is a comparative investigation of Vetmedin (pimobendan) versus benazepril's effect on MVD, which is also known as Canine Valvular Heart Disease. The study looks at the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF) resulting from MVD, which particularly affects the mitral valve.

One of the investigators, Dr Joanna Dukes McEwan, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Cardiology at the University of Glasgow, explains: "Mitral valve disease is the most common cause of heart disease in small breed dogs. Although this is an age related disease in certain breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, it occurs prematurely and significantly shortens their lifespan. We are not able to cure the disease, but we aim to identify the optimal drug treatment to give the dog a good quality of life and survival time after the onset of heart failure. The QUEST study will help achieve this".

The QUEST study should last for 3 years and recruit 260 dogs in 10 countries utilising 26 investigators. The seven UK-based investigators aim to recruit dogs with MVD demonstrating signs of congestive heart failure. The dogs must weigh between 5kg and 20kg and be aged over five years old. Owners will be offered free diagnosis and therapeutic treatment for heart failure during the course of the trial, if they are suitable for inclusion in the study.

Rick Butson of Boehringer Ingelheim, which commissioned the study, said: "The size of the QUEST study and the participation of some of the world's leading cardiology experts can only illustrate the vital importance of this piece of research. Clearly this is of major interest to the veterinary profession in selecting future treatment regimes".

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

A number of other investigators from Australia, Canada and Europe will also be taking part in QUEST.

Myxomatous mitral valvular disease (MVD) is a common condition encountered in small animal practice. The value of treating this condition with either Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or pimobendan has recently stimulated considerable debate and interest among experts.

Vetmedin is a breakthrough treatment for congestive heart failure in dogs. Since its introduction in 2000 it has been shown to increase both quality of life and length of life in dogs suffering from congestive heart disease above and beyond previous treatment regimes. For more details see Vetmedin Website.

Dog owners who think their pets may qualify for the study can call QUEST on 01344 742 574.

For further press information please contact Mike Findlay, Press Officer, University of Glasgow Tel: 0141 330 3535 or m.findlay@admin.gla.ac.uk.

First published: 19 November 2003