MSPCA-Angell Press Release

Angell Surgeon Utilizes Stem Cells to Combat Canine Arthritis

August 20, 2009

Non-Profit veterinary Hospital Continues to Lead the Pack in Innovative Treatments

Casale

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A staff surgeon at Boston’s Angell Animal Medical Center is using stem cell technology to combat canine arthritis. The use of stem cells at the non-profit hospital over the past year has aided several dogs who had only known pain when walking.

“As one of the leading veterinary hospitals in the world, it is the responsibility of Angell’s staff members to continue to pursue ground breaking technologies to better care for our patients and relieve their suffering,” said Carter Luke, President of the MSPCA-Angell. “Angell-Boston provides pets with around the clock, compassionate care through more than 75 veterinarians in 14 specialties treating nearly 1,000 patients each week. We consistently assemble the world’s leading veterinary practitioners to care for animals currently in need of medical treatment while striving to cure these ailments while anticipating the needs of the next animal to come through our doors. There is an unrelenting wave of pain and suffering in the animal world and we will improve their lives through innovation, compassion and determination.”

The stem cell technology used at Angell was developed by Vet-Stem, Inc., a California based veterinary company focusing on regenerative technology. Once a patient is approved for stem cell treatment a small amount of fatty tissue is removed from the dog and converted into regenerative cells that, once injected, will mimic the surrounding cells, improving joint movement for months.

“Stem cell technology has provided my patients with pain-free movement for months at a time,” said Angell-Boston board-certified, staff surgeon Dr. Sue Casale. “While this technology is not a cure-all it is an important, and effective, alternative to more invasive procedures for treating arthritis in canines. One day it is our hope that stem cells will be effective in treating fatal diseases including those of the heart and liver.”

Pet owners wishing to discuss stem cell treatment for canine arthritis are urged to contact Boston’s Angell Animal Medical Center at (617)-522-7282.