University of Saskatchewan researchers are working on a dog food made from pulse crops to determine whether pulses are beneficial to the health of pets.

The three-year project has received US$172,000 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, which will go towards a high-resolution ultrasound microscope. The microscope will examine the effects of pulse crop-based diets on the cardiovascular and reproductive health of pets, according to reports. "It seems early results are that it really is beneficial, but this machine will really allow us to really confirm that," said Lynn Weber, of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine.

The petfood will be developed from chickpeas, beans and lentils.