The health of animals and humans has long been intertwined, and a research program at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine will be at the Minnesota State Fair to share how that connection can help create a cure for brain cancer.

The Canine Brain Tumor Program (CBTP) uses research to advance care for both dogs and people affected by primary brain tumors. The team studies how canine and human gliomas are similar to each other and uses those insights to conduct clinical trials that benefit both dogs and people.

Fairgoers of all ages are invited to visit the booth to learn more about the program and the tumors it targets, the treatments its researchers are developing, and how they can play a role in the CBTP’s work. 

“Booth visitors will have the opportunity to answer a series of questions about canine brain tumors, research, cancer in general, and what they can do to help keep their pets healthy,” says Susan Arnold, a veterinary neurologist and director of the program. “Members of the CBTP will be there to demonstrate how we do cutting-edge brain surgery on dogs.”

Since its inception in 2007, the CBTP has enrolled more than 350 dogs for treatment in clinical trials that test cutting-edge therapies. Many of those dogs have enjoyed extended survival time with excellent quality of life.

You can visit the CBTP booth from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 1 and from 2:30 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 7 in the University of Minnesota Research Building located at 1367 Cosgrove St.  

The program will be among more than 60 UMN groups conducting and sharing research at the fair throughout its two-week run. 

Learn more about the Canine Brain Tumor Program and its mission.