"Shelter Me: The Cancer Pioneers" Premieres on PBS Streaming Today

Emmy Award-Winning Series Releases Latest Documentary Showcasing the Vital Role of Dogs in Advancing Human Cancer Treatments

LOS ANGELES, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The inspiring new documentary "Shelter Me: The Cancer Pioneers" premieres today, streaming for free on the PBS app and PBS.org. This powerful film highlights the incredible journey of dogs participating in clinical trials that are driving life-saving breakthroughs in human cancer treatment.

The newest film in the Emmy Award-winning "Shelter Me" series, "The Cancer Pioneers" follows trailblazing veterinarians, researchers and devoted, brave individuals as they explore the revolutionary field of comparative oncology, where immunotherapies developed for dogs are now transforming cancer care for humans.

Viewers can now stream "Shelter Me: The Cancer Pioneers" at https://www.pbs.org/video/the-cancer-pioneers-jemhoc/

"This is one of the most uplifting and consequential stories we've ever shared," said Steven Latham, Creator and Producer of the "Shelter Me" series. "Through their courage and loyalty, these dogs are helping us unlock a better future for human cancer patients."

The documentary features interviews and behind-the-scenes footage from leading institutions including the National Institutes of Health, the National Cancer Institute, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Illinois, the University of Wisconsin and Colorado State University. It showcases the remarkable partnership between science and compassion, a relationship that could hold the key to curing some of the deadliest forms of cancer.

Among those featured is Serena Sabuda de La Fé, a remarkable seven-time cancer survivor whose story embodies the film's message of hope. Alongside her, families share emotional journeys with their dogs, patients in clinical trials, revealing how these animals are not only companions, but heroes helping advance life-saving cancer treatments.

"The Cancer Pioneers" continues the celebrated tradition of the "Shelter Me" series, known for its moving stories of animals and the people who love them. With breathtaking cinematography and deeply personal stories, the film offers an unprecedented look at how beloved pets are becoming pioneers of modern medicine.

The "Shelter Me" series began streaming earlier this month, with a new episode released weekly for the next four months — the first time the full series is available for streaming. Episodes have been hosted by John Legend, Jane Goodall, Jon Hamm, Edie Falco, Kristen Bell, Allison Janney and Jane Lynch. The PBS app is available on most major devices, and content can also be streamed at PBS.org.

Additionally, "The Cancer Pioneers" will be broadcast on the following PBS stations, with future dates to be announced:

• Los Angeles (PBS SoCal Plus/KCET) - June 12 at 6:30 p.m. PDT
• Washington, D.C. (WETA) – June 28 at 8 p.m. EDT
• Champaign/Urbana, IL (WILL) – June 9 at 9 p.m. CDT
• Chicago (WTTW Prime) – June 29 at 9 p.m. CDT and June 30 at 1 p.m. CDT
• Western Massachusetts (NEPM) – June 15 at 12 p.m. EDT and June 26 at 9 p.m. EDT

Watch last season's sizzle reel: https://vimeo.com/873071960/607b76eda3?share=copy

The "Shelter Me" series is produced by Steven Latham Productions and presented by Petco Love. To learn more about "Shelter Me: The Cancer Pioneers," visit https://www.shelterme.tv/.

About "Shelter Me: The Cancer Pioneers"

"Shelter Me: The Cancer Pioneers" is about groundbreaking clinical trials for dogs with cancer which is leading to new treatments for people. Featuring leading scientists at the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health and universities across the country. This field of science is called comparative oncology and dogs are leading the way for new immunotherapies. Dogs are amazing and are helping save our lives!

"Shelter Me" is an Emmy Award-winning PBS series that is produced by Steven Latham Productions and powered by Petco Love.

SOURCE Shelter Me