What? Say it isn’t so!

We have a terrific line-up of beautiful dogs this year, but I noticed there are at least 50 dogs who haven’t been voted for even once. Really? That can’t be right.

So I’m thinking, maybe everyone doesn’t have the right link for voting? So I’m posting it again. You only have until August the 8th at midnight EDT to rally the troops and get friends and family (and you) to vote for your pupper(s). If you have any questions about voting, please email me at erich@puppyup.org.

OK, here’s the link to the Fundraiser Directory.  You can keep track of the voting tallies there.

And here’s a fun little video about voting you can send to friends and family: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpFmhezokO0

Remember, votes are only $1.00 (starting at $5.00 and > in dollar increments thereafter). Your votes not only go towards your favorite pup but the money we raise will help fund one of three studies with The Broad Institute. Why is this important? Because, among other things, they are studying the genomics of some major canine cancers: lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma. In so many of the stories this year, these were three of the predominant cancers. Your voting dollars can contribute to helping find the causes of canine cancer.

The 13 dogs with the most votes not only win a month on the calendar (or the cover), but their people decide which of the three studies above 2 Million Dogs will help fund. You can’t get more direct involvement than that unless you’re the one holding the test tube!! Yes, your votes matter. Not only to these dogs, but to so many other pups stricken with cancer.

2 Million Dogs knows there are many organizations to which you can send your money. We appreciate your involvement with us. And there are many organizations looking to find cures, and that’s admirable too. But why not look at the causes of cancer, so fewer dogs have to suffer to begin with? Help us get to the heart of the matter.

Cancer. Touches. Everyone.

Help us fund the research that has the potential to find a way to stop it before it starts.

Thank you.

In case you’re in the mood for it, here’s a bit of geek for you:

Genetics scrutinizes the functioning and composition of the single gene whereas genomics addresses all genes and their inter relationships in order to identify their combined influence on the growth and development of the organism.

What’s the difference between genetics and genomics?

Genetics is the study of single genes and their effects. For example, Huntington’s or Tay-Sachs disease would be considered “genetics” because a single gene causes these diseases, despite environmental interactions.

Genomics is the study of all your genes including interactions of those genes with each other and with your environment. For example, heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and cancer would all be considered “genomics” because they are caused by genetic and environmental factors.