Miracle pill could extend your dog's life by more than 15 months

Great news for dog lovers: a simple pill could extend your hound’s life by an average of 15 months.

According to ground-breaking new research, the drug Pimobendan delays the onset of fatal heart disease linked to mitral valve disease (MVD), a common cause of death for dogs.

The research, published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, shows that giving the drug to dogs with enlarged hearts - considered to be a key warning sign of MVD - could cause symptoms to slow, adding around 15 months to a dog’s life.

While the drug is already in use in the UK, it tends only to be administered after a dog has been diagnosed with heart disease.

The comprehensive study took place over seven years, involving 360 dogs from 11 different countries.

The evidence was so conclusive that the study was terminated early, as it was deemed unethical to continue to withhold treatment from the placebo group.

At risk: Cavalier King Charles spaniels suffer more heart problems than any other breed (Ellen Levy Finch)

The research was led by Adrian Boswood, Professor of Veterinary Cardiology at the Royal Veterinary College. He said: “This is a major breakthrough in treatment and could extend the lives of dogs around the world.

“Up until now, vets and dog owners had no choice but to wait until their dog developed heart failure before they could receive effective treatment. This ground-breaking research and treatment offers a lifeline to millions of dogs, by delaying heart failure for up to 15 months.

“Vets no longer have to adopt a ‘watch and wait’ approach, and owners can rest assured there is a drug available to prolong the quality of life for their pets.”

Small breeds of dog are most commonly affected by MVD, particularly cavalier King Charles spaniels.

Top image: Tanakawho/Flickr