Skip to main content
The Thinking Pets Program
Three pictures side-by-side, a black lab looking into the distance, a gray and white cat looking into the distance, and a German Shepherd in mid-run toward the camera.

About Us

The Thinking Pets Program I Comparative Behavioral Research

Welcome to The Thinking Pets Program at NC State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where we enroll both dogs and cats for our observational research studies diving into the minds of our furry friends.

Our study participants are canine and feline companion animals, residing in the Triangle area, who come visit us for a day of games, treats, and fun!

Our researchers have broad areas of interest including studies of behavior, cognition, neuroaging, naturally occurring pain, and olfaction. In addition to our non-clinical studies, we also conduct clinical research in partnership with external companies, such as those developing animal health technologies, to improve the everyday life for our furry friends.

Featured Paw-ticipation opportunities

Australian shepherd sitting and staring off to the left.

Our colleagues with the Canine Neuroaging Program are recruiting for a new clinical study!

The Effect of A New Combination of Dietary Supplements on Activity and Attention in Aging Dogs

Is your dog 10+ and showing their age? Have you noticed them slowing down, sleeping poorly, or being less engaged?

If so, then your dog may be eligible to participate in a dietary supplement trial aimed at improving attention and mobility in older dogs!

Learn more and proceed to enrollment 
Black and white husky laying down outside with their tongue out.

The Thinking Pets Den

Interested in furthering scientific discovery? We welcome all breeds, ages, sizes, and colors of companions to participate in our studies.

Be among the first to know of our emerging opportunities with The Thinking Pets Program by enrolling in The Thinking Pets Den!

For your convenience, you’ll be alerted by email of open recruitment periods and study opportunities headed your way.

Enroll your furry friends today 

Following our fresh tracks

Shiba Inu stands on a platform facing sideways.

Static Posturography as a Novel Measure of the Effects of Aging on Postural Control in Dogs

Mondino A., Wagner G., Russell K., Lobaton E., Griffith E, Gruen, M., . . . Olby, N. J. (2022). PLoS ONE, 17(7), 1-20.

View Article 
Black and white photo of an older retriever staring into the distance with a smile.

Quantifying Cognitive Decline in Dogs Could Help Humans with Alzheimer’s Disease

“Researchers have found that a suite of complimentary tests can quantify changes in dogs suspected of suffering from cognitive decline.”

Read the article 

To read more about Neuroaging in Canines head over to – Publications –

To read more noteworthy news head over to – Follow Our Tracks –