Dog Owners Invited to Free Diabetes Study

Illinois vets lead research on diabetes prevention in dogs

The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine is inviting area dog owners to take part in a new study focused on preventing diabetes in pets. As part of the project, veterinarians are gathering blood samples to establish reference values for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a key marker used in people to track long-term blood sugar levels.

Owners of healthy dogs between six months and two years old are encouraged to participate. Each enrolled pet will receive a brief physical exam and a blood draw during a scheduled appointment at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital on October 26, 2025.

In return, owners will receive a free health evaluation, including results from a complete blood count, a chemistry panel, and a detailed interpretation of findings. This service is provided at no cost while contributing to important veterinary research.

Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine diseases in dogs, often requiring lifelong insulin treatment. Researchers, including Dr. Arnon Gal and Dr. Denzel Adam, hope the study will lead to earlier identification of dogs at risk. “Ultimately, we hope to make it possible to identify dogs at risk before they develop diabetes,” said Dr. Gal, “so that one day veterinarians may be able to intervene early and prevent the disease entirely.”

The research team believes there may be a “gray zone” between healthy and diabetic levels that signals pre-diabetes. The current study will help define those thresholds and could pave the way for preventative care in the future.

By joining the study, dog owners not only receive a free health check for their pets but also contribute to groundbreaking research that may help protect countless dogs from diabetes in years to come.