Greyhounds Power OSA Research on Two Fronts

One Sample, Two Hospitals, Endless Hope: Greyhounds Power Breakthrough OSA Research

At The Greyhound Health Initiative (GHI), every Cancer Warrior tells a story of courage, compassion, and possibility. Today, that story has grown even bigger. Thanks to the combined efforts of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (UPENN/PennVet) and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the post-amputation samples generously provided by our Greyhound heroes are now fueling research in both canine and human childhood osteosarcoma, across two world-class institutions.

What does this mean? It means that one small sample of an osteosarcoma (tumor), collected from a Greyhound, is no longer limited to a single study. Instead, it is broadening the scope of osteosarcoma (OSA) research at both UPENN and CHOP—doubling the impact, doubling the potential, and doubling the hope. The two institutions working together enables an unparalleled, comprehensive interrogation of multiple aspects of the tumor’s biology including the tumor’s genome, immune status, metabolic status and response to various different drug therapies. To be successful, we need to “know the enemy” and this collaborative approach will provide that knowledge.

💡 Why it matters:

Greyhounds are uniquely predisposed to OSA, making them invaluable partners in understanding this devastating disease for the benefit of both canine patients and children with osteosarcoma.
Amputation is part of routine care for osteosarcoma and we can take samples from the amputated limbs and use them for research.
By sharing samples across institutions, researchers can accelerate discoveries, compare findings, and strengthen the science, helping our dogs to access new therapies and receive cutting edge care.
Most importantly, this collaboration bridges the gap between veterinary and pediatric medicine—bringing us closer to breakthroughs that could one day help dogs and children facing the same diagnosis.

This is translational research at its finest: what we learn from our canine companions may directly inform treatments for young human patients. It’s a powerful reminder that the fight against OSA is not confined to species—it’s a shared battle, and together we are stronger.

✨ From Greyhounds to children, from one sample to two hospitals, from today’s research to tomorrow’s cures—this is the future we’re building.

At GHI, we are proud to stand at the heart of this collaboration, connecting donors, dogs, and doctors in a mission that saves lives. Every supporter, every volunteer, and every Greyhound who gives is part of this extraordinary journey.

For more details on osteosarcoma and the studies we’re currently supporting, explore the related posts below. If your dog can contribute to this vital research, please complete our OSA Form.

📧 Questions about the study or interested in getting involved? Reach out to us anytime at OSAResearch@greyhoundhealthinitiative.org.

⚠️ Please note: we require at least 24 hours’ notice (ideally 48) before a scheduled amputation to ensure sample collection materials reach your veterinary surgeon in time.

For urgent matters or immediate assistance, please refer to the additional contact information provided below.

Greyhound Health Initiative Research Coordinator Email: OSAResearch@greyhoundhealthinitiative.org, P: 1.800.416.5156, Ext 700