A clinical trial is currently being conducted in the United States to assess a medication that might prolong the lifespan of dogs.

The research, referred to as the STAY trial, is organized by Loyal, an animal health company located in San Francisco.

This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will involve at least one thousand senior dogs, with the company's goal of obtaining approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) based on the results.

The trial builds upon successful preclinical and pilot studies.

According to Alex Robb, the medical director of Goodheart Animal Health Center in Colorado, the dogs participating in the trial will receive daily doses of the drug over four years, along with regular clinical evaluations.

Researchers will assess whether the drug has a significant effect on longevity once the study concludes.

To be eligible for the trial, dogs must be a minimum of ten years old and weigh at least fourteen pounds.

Owners must agree to have their pet’s primary care managed by a participating study clinic and commit to multiple veterinary appointments over the four years.

The first year entails six visits, followed by two visits each year in the subsequent years.

The research aims to explore factors involved in canine aging, including their higher metabolic rates compared to humans.

While veterinary advancements have enhanced healthcare for dogs, their overall lifespan has not increased as quickly as that of humans.

Loyal intends to use the data gathered to seek conditional FDA approval for the drug by the end of the year.

Recruitment for the trial is still active at various clinics nationwide.