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February 14, 2014 – For Lee Pickett, VMD, her commitment to animal health goes far beyond the Bernville Veterinary Clinic in Bernville, Pennsylvania, where she practices. She is actively involved in her local humane society and Golden Retriever rescue, writes articles on pet health and even created and taught a class on veterinary medicine for pet owners. It’s no wonder this award-winning veterinarian was profiled in a Philadelphia magazine cover story on great vets.

It also comes as no surprise that Dr. Pickett is leading the pack with the most dogs enrolled in Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. Already, eight of her canine patients are enrolled – Delilah, Gryffin, Hummer, Jonah, Jorja, Punky, Reilly and Monty – and two more are awaiting application approval. Her participation is just one more way in which she’s giving back – to dogs and the veterinary community.

“I chose to participate in the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study because I wanted to give something back to all the wonderful Golden Retrievers who have shared my life over the years,” Dr. Pickett says.

Her hope is that study researchers will improve the health of these lovable dogs, which have a high risk for cancer. The genetic, environmental and nutritional data from participating dogs will help the Foundation learn how to prevent cancer and other canine diseases in the breed. Plus, what is learned from the Golden Retrievers in the study will give all dogs a brighter, healthier future.

“I want to play a role in improving the lives of all dogs, regardless of breed status,” Dr. Pickett says. “I hope that what we learn will help us prolong their healthy years, detect problems earlier and more successfully treat disease. We may even be able to advise Golden Retriever breeders about how to improve the quality of the breed we all love so much.”

Learn more about Morris Animal Foundation and our other programs.