Pet Longevity is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation focused on researching and addressing the health challenges pets face after spaying or neutering. We have launched the Million Pet Study to investigate the impact of these procedures on pet health and explore the potential of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a solution. Our research draws parallels between the hormonal changes in pets post-surgery ("menopaws") and human menopause/andropause, highlighting the importance of hormones for overall well-being.

Main Themes and Key Ideas:

1. "Menopaws" and Hormonal Imbalance:

• Pet Longevity introduces the concept of "menopaws" to describe the hormonal changes that occur in pets after spaying or neutering. This highlights the parallels with human menopause and andropause.
• These hormonal shifts can lead to various long-term health problems in pets. The organization's research aims to understand and address these consequences.
• The core idea is that removing hormone-producing organs disrupts the endocrine system, leading to issues like metabolic disorders, joint problems, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.

1. Negative Health Consequences of Spaying/Neutering:

• Traditional spaying and neutering are called into question, with the sources highlighting evidence that these procedures are linked to increased risks of various health problems.
• These problems include:
• Musculoskeletal issues: Including hip dysplasia (canine hip dysplasia frequency up to 75%) and cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture. "Neutered dogs, whether male or female, had a higher prevalence of CCL rupture than did sexually intact dogs."
• Obesity/Overweight: "Compared to intact dogs, all gonadectomy age categories showed increased risk for the development of overweight/obesity.”
• Increased Risk of Certain Cancers: Specifically, lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma, "Removing hormone-producing organs at a young age disrupts the endocrine system, leading to serious consequences like an increased risk of aggressive cancers." - Dr. Karen Becker
• Behavioral Issues: "Longer exposure to gonadal hormones, regardless of reproductive status, was associated with reduced odds of general health problems and both problematic and nuisance behaviors." and "Increasing lifetime exposure to gonadal hormones was associated with a reduction in fear and aggression-related behaviors"
• Joint Disorders "Joint disorders can shorten a dog’s useful working life and impact its role as a family member." - Hart
• The organization cites numerous studies indicating the correlation between neuter status and increased risks of health problems.

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) as a Solution:

• Pet Longevity's primary research focus is on the use of HRT to counteract the negative effects of "menopaws."
• We believe that HRT can restore hormonal balance, prevent diseases, and improve the overall quality of life for pets.
• The organization is gathering data and testing innovative HRT protocols. Their work includes "ongoing studies that focus on safe, effective dosing and implementation of HRT for pets."
• One case study noted that "weekly subcutaneous administration of testosterone cypionate (0.5 mg/kg) significantly reduced pain and increased muscle mass, thereby improving mobility."

1. The Million Pet Study:

• The study draws inspiration from large-scale human studies, like the Million Women Study, reflecting the organization's commitment to applying human medical advancements to veterinary science.
• We actively encourage pet owners and veterinarians to participate in and contribute to the research through their website.

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