Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) is a nonprofit organization that funds and supports research to improve the health and welfare of animals. MAF was founded in 1948 by Dr. Mark L. Morris Sr., a veterinarian and pioneer in animal health research. Dr. Morris believed that advances in veterinary medicine could only be achieved through scientific research, and he set out to create an organization that would fund this type of work. Today, MAF is one of the largest private funders of animal health research in the world, investing more than $100 million annually in over 2,000 studies across a broad range of species and diseases.
MAF’s investment in science has led to major breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, wildlife, and zoo animals. Some notable examples include:
The development of the Canine Distemper Virus vaccine which has saved the lives of millions of dogs worldwide;
The discovery that copper deficiency is a leading cause of liver disease in sheep;
The development of a test for equine infectious anemia which has prevented thousands of horses from being unnecessarily euthanized;
And the identification of a new virus associated with fatal respiratory disease in ferrets.
MAFF also provides funding for training programs to help veterinarians and other animal health professionals keep up with the latest developments in their field. These programs include continuing education courses, fellowships, internships, and residencies. In addition to its support for scientific research and education, MAF also works to promote public awareness about animal health issues through its advocacy program. This program provides information on topics such as pet care tips, responsible pet ownership practices