Already man's best friend, doggies are doing even more for us lowly humans. Scientists are hopeful that dog DNA will lead to an understanding of how to treat and cure a multitude of human ailments, including diabetes.

They are looking for genetic patterns that predispose some dogs to conditions similar to diseases found in humans.

By identifying genetic triggers for disease in dogs, the researchers could offer hope of cures for humans.

Dogs are ideal research subjects for genetic studies because inbreeding has limited their genetic variability.

Researchers need more dogs, though, to make the tests viable. You can volunteer your furry friend to help out, which involves only a simple blood test.

Look at the animals who have made significant contributions to diabetes research in the last year: dogs, pigs, monkeys, and Gila monsters. We certainly owe a lot to the animal kingdom.

(Photo Source: Herald Sun)