According to Wild Blue’s research, one in three dogs will get cancer, six million will be diagnosed in 2020 and most will die within a year. That’s a staggering number, and it’s the driving force behind Wild Blue’s mission to fund research and help dog owners who can’t afford treatment.

Wild Blue’s need-based treatment program offers grants to people lacking the resources to pay for their pet’s cancer treatment. The organization covers costs ranging from diagnostic imaging to chemotherapy, giving dogs a fighting chance regardless of their family’s financial situation. For many owners, the grant is the difference between treatment and having to say goodbye far too soon.

Its fundraising activities include two week-long dog camps at Lake Tahoe plus “yappy hour” events and other fun get-togethers throughout the year. The Tahoe camps bring together dog lovers from across the state for a week of hiking, swimming, group dinners and educational sessions with veterinary oncologists. It’s equal parts vacation and community building, and every dollar raised goes directly to supporting dogs in treatment.

The field of research being supported is comparative oncology, which is focused on the link between human cancer and cancer in dogs and other animal species. Because dogs and humans share many of the same cancer types, breakthroughs in canine treatment often lead to advances in human medicine, too. It’s a win for both species.

Close to home or a road trip away, you and your dog can help support the cause while having a lot of fun at the same time. Nice to know: Wild Blue operates the only not-for-profit dog camp in the country, a factoid that adds to the give-back vibe. If you can’t make it to camp, the organization also accepts donations year-round and hosts smaller regional events that are worth keeping an eye on.