AKC Canine Health Foundation Funds $80 Million in Dog Health

The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) has funded $80 million in canine health research without pharmaceutical or federal dollars. The nonprofit relies entirely on donations from people who care about dogs, according to CEO Stephanie Montgomery, DVM, PhD, DACVP, who spoke on The Vet Blast Podcast from dvm360.

Montgomery explained that the foundation is an affiliate of the American Kennel Club but functions separately. Its mission is to administer and fund the best possible science for dog health. In the past year, the foundation saw a 25% increase in grant applications, a spike Montgomery called exciting because it indicates more good work to potentially fund.

Funding and Research Scope

The foundation funds research across nearly 30 areas of canine health. These range from cardiology and oncology to ophthalmology and theriogenology. This year, the organization declared aging as a new formal area of funding. Montgomery emphasized the importance of research into both the lifespan and "health span" of dogs, ensuring they live longer, healthier lives.

Key Research Initiatives

Montgomery highlighted several specific studies the foundation is supporting. One effort aims to establish new standards for diagnosing canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Another significant area of research is copper-associated hepatopathy, a liver disease. The foundation is also funding work on canine schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease.

"We want to bring in the best science and make sure the best people to do it are doing it," Montgomery said of the foundation's role. She described the mission as one that "is only alive because people believe in a healthier tomorrow for dogs."

Supporting the Veterinary Profession

Beyond funding specific studies, CHF supports the veterinary profession through awards and training programs. It recognizes outstanding work with its Canine Health Discovery of the Year award. The foundation also build the next generation of researchers through young investigator programs and residencies in specialized fields like theriogenology and sports medicine.

Montgomery also discussed the critical role breed clubs play in advancing canine health research. These clubs often help direct funding and attention to conditions prevalent in specific breeds. The foundation's structure allows it to stay responsive to emerging issues in veterinary medicine, ensuring donated funds address the most pressing health challenges facing dogs today.