Heal: The Vital Role of Dogs in the Search for Cancer Cures

Science writer Weintraub (Selling the Fountain of Youth) introduces readers to the field of comparative oncology in this analysis of research into treatments for cancers that are similar in dogs and people. These ailments include lymphoma, osteosarcoma, breast cancer, melanoma, and gastric cancer. Driven by her professional curiosity, lifelong love of dogs, and grief after losing her sister to gastric cancer in 2010, Weintraub visits eight universities over two years. The book chronicles her interviews with researchers, whose fields include the quest for cancer-killing viruses (virotherapy), testing potential treatments on pet dogs with cancer; trials with metformin, a glucose-lowering pill that’s used to treat diabetes; and the use of sniffing dogs for early detection of some kinds of cancer. Anyone interested in translational science, innovative developments in cancer research, or treating pets with cancer will find this book a valuable resource. It includes lists of institutions doing comparative oncology research, related books, clinical trials, and funding sources. Readers will share Weintraub’s growing appreciation for the canine and feline subjects (and their owners) who are helping to advance cancer research. Agency: Renée Zuckerbrot Literary Agency. (Oct.)