Link to a helpful article on dealing with the loss of your pet - click here.

From one of our members:

As most of you know, there is a high incidence of cancer in goldens. The 1998 Health Survey done by the Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA) reported that hemangiosarcoma will strike 1 in 5 Goldens, and lymphoma will hit 1 in 8 Goldens. There is a lot of research currently being done about these two cancers.

Amazingly, there is now even a blood test for lymphoma. But what you may not know is that if you ever find yourself in the sad situation of one of your Goldens being diagnosed with cancer, you can help with the research. I know no one wants to think about that, but the GRCA has published some info you can give your vet if you want to send blood and tissue samples to the researchers before your dog's treatment begins. It's important that they be sent before any medications/treatment be given to your dog. You would be helping the breed and all Golden owners. The link is here:

http://www.grca.org/health/cancerdonation.pdf with more info.

I've owned 4 Goldens and my first two died of cancer: my girl from hemangiosarcoma and my boy from lymphoma two years ago. I wasn't aware of these studies at the time. I hope I never go through that again, but if I do, I will send the blood/tissue samples off. Because of this high incidence of cancer, Goldens are now the pilot breed for a new DNA database. This will allow researchers access to family groups needed for specific genetic research studies. The DNA is linked to a health history (clearances) and a pedigree. My 2 year old male, Scout, had his blood drawn for this last year and is now registered in the database.

Financial Aid:

Helping Hands Mission Statement:

Colorado’s Helping Hands Foundation ("Helping Hands") provides financial subsidies for non-routine treatment of companion animals. A last resort for covering the cost of emergency or specialist treatment, Helping Hands assistance can often facilitate a happy ending in life or death situations.

Helping Hands helps to make abandoned animals with medical problems more adoptable, giving many strays a second chance in our community.

Helping Hands is a charity founded by Alameda East Veterinary Hospital in the 1990’s. In 2003 Helping Hands became "Colorado’s Helping Hands Foundation" and was granted 501(c)(3) status.

Contact Us:

Colorado’s Helping Hands Foundation

9870 E. Alameda Avenue, c/o AEVH

Denver, CO 80247-1302

303-366-2639