Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing a new blood test for dogs that could eventually speed up blood testing in humans. Associate Professor Amy DeClue of the College of Veterinary Medicine says testing that currently takes days may ultimately take just minutes, with a test strip that can be analyzed in the vet’s office.

DeClue says her team has been looking at different biomarkers in the blood and they think they found one that requires only a simple blood test. If so, future tests could help veterinarians tailor their treatment and reduce antibiotic use. DeClue says, “The systems in dogs and people are very applicable to each other, so whatever biomarkers we find in dogs could also benefit people.”