Project Wishbone

Quality of life for aging dogs

How does a dog’s quality of life change as they age? Help us find out.

Joining the Project Wishbone study

If you participated in Loyal’s Healthspan Study, you’ll receive an email from Vetmetrica with a link to the Project Wishbone survey. Your participation will help us better understand why dogs age and what we can do so they are happier and healthier for longer. All that’s required is for you to complete a short online survey about your dog’s health every six months.

Reach out to projectwishbone@loyalfordogs.com with any questions, and we’ll be happy to help.

What is Project Wishbone?

Project Wishbone is a pioneering research study that will use pet parent surveys to understand how a dog’s quality of life changes over time. An extension of Loyal’s Healthspan Study, it is aimed at understanding how your dog’s quality of life changes as they age.

Who can participate in Project Wishbone?

The Project Wishbone research study is open to all who previously participated in Loyal’s Healthspan Study.

I participated in Loyal’s Healthspan Study. How can I join the Project Wishbone research study?

All that’s required is for you to take a short, 10-minute Health Related Quality of Life (HRQL) online survey every six months. You will receive an email reminder when it is time for you to take the survey.

What kinds of questions are on the HRQL online survey?

The HRQL online survey is used to assess a dog’s quality of life. You may remember it from the Healthspan Study and recall that it asks you to rate how your dog is currently feeling and acting across various attributes. For example, rating their energy levels or interest in play on a scale.

Why is Loyal collecting this data?

Loyal is on a mission to improve the healthspan (quality of life) and lifespan (years of life) of dogs. We’ll use the data we gather to help us better understand the mechanisms of agings, and how we can help dogs stay healthier and live longer.

What is the duration of Project Wishbone?

Project Wishbone is a longitudinal research study, and we encourage participation over the lifespan of your dog. If you no longer wish to participate, or if your dog is rehomed or or has passed away, we encourage you to let us know.