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Navigating Clinical Trials

You shouldn't have to start from a blank page. We've put together this diagnostic guide and email template to help you take the next step.

Step 1 — Request your vet's lab report

How to use these templates: Click Copy Template to copy the full email to your clipboard. Open your email app, paste it in, and replace every [highlighted field] with your pet's specific information before sending.

What is a diagnostic report?

A “full diagnosis” in veterinary oncology isn't just about confirming that cancer is present; it is about mapping out the exact identity and scope of the disease. Without this specific data, it is impossible to predict how the disease will behave or to safely design a treatment plan. This information is usually required before most treatments can be initiated. For the same reasons, it is always going to be required before an animal can be accepted into a clinical trial.

See the full diagnostic guide →

Fill in your details first

The template below will update automatically as you type — then just copy and send.

Pet's name

Species

Diagnosis or condition

Your full name

Type of report needed

Template 1 — Send First

Requesting Your Vet's Diagnostic Lab Report

When to use: Send this before you begin your application. Most clinical trials require a formal diagnostic lab report from a veterinary laboratory. This email asks your primary vet to provide one — or to let you know what additional steps are needed.

Subject: Request for [Pet's Name]'s Diagnostic Lab Report — Clinical Trial Inquiry

Dear Dr. [Veterinarian's Last Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I'm writing about [Pet's Name], my dog who was diagnosed with [diagnosis/condition] in [approximate month and year].

We are exploring veterinary clinical trial options that might offer [Pet's Name] access to newer treatments. Through a service called Pet Trial Finder, I've been matched with active trials at universities and veterinary colleges across the country — but to move forward, the research teams require a complete diagnostic laboratory report issued by a veterinary laboratory.

Specifically, they've asked for [type of report needed]. I wanted to reach out to you first, as [Pet's Name]'s primary care provider, to ask whether this documentation is available or whether we would need to take any additional steps to obtain it.

If it would be easier to discuss this over the phone or at a brief appointment, I'm happy to arrange that. This means the world to our family, and we are grateful for the care and compassion you've always shown [Pet's Name].

Thank you so much for your time.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Owner of [Pet's Name]

A few tips before you send

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Be specific about your pet

Include your pet's species, breed, age, and diagnosis when requesting records from your vet. The more specific you are, the faster they can pull the right information.

⏱

Follow up within a week

Vet practices are busy. If you haven't heard back about your diagnostic records within 5–7 business days, a polite follow-up is completely appropriate.

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Keep a copy of what you send

Save each sent email so you have a record of what was requested and when. This helps if you need to follow up or escalate.

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You're already doing the hard part

Gathering records and asking questions takes effort — especially during an already difficult time. Every step you take gives your pet a better shot at finding the right trial.

Next step

Need to find your matched trials first?

Pet Trial Finder searches 147 active trials at 25 universities and veterinary colleges and delivers your pet's matches in minutes — so you know exactly which coordinators to contact.

Find Matched Trials for My Pet

$7 search fee · No additional charge if no matches