$30 Million donation propels launch Cornell Canine Health Center

(Photo Courtesy of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine).

The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine has received a $30 million gift from Margaret and Richard Riney to accelerate its canine health center’s launch. The facility has recognized this generosity by honoring the donors in its new name as The Cornell Margaret and Richard Riney Canine Health Center.

What's more, the funding is essential to advancing canine health-related research through world-class studies, outreach, and interaction with dog lovers.

“We know personally the importance and benefits of the relationships humans form with animals, especially with our pets,” said Richard Riney. “We wanted to support far-ranging research initiatives that may help dogs live their best lives, while recognizing that research into the canine condition can help to advance human medicine.”

According to a university release, the canine health center’s launch is timely as the pandemic enabled people— particularly pet owners—to spend more time at home, thus strengthening the bonds with their beloved animals. Innovations and developments in telehealth, diagnostics, and therapeutics have set up the potential for greater-than-ever canine research advancements.

In addition, the donation puts Cornell Riney Canine Health Center on the path to becoming a top source of canine research-based information. The funding will initially provide a substantial internal grants program for canine health-related research, adding on to Cornell’s current program strengths by focusing on studying cancer, genetics and genomics, infectious diseases, and immunology.

The center strives to establish itself as the most trusted source on canine health. Its website will include health-related videos, online seminars, stories, and explainers that address the needs of dog lovers and owners, plus breeders and veterinary healthcare providers. Online venues will allow 2-way communication between the center’s experts and content developers and the public.

Reference

$30 million gift helps launch Canine Health Center at Cornell. News release. Cornell University. December 1, 2021. Accessed December 1, 2021.