Westminster Poster Proceeds Benefit CHF

The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) has been named the recipient of the proceeds from sales of the official poster for the Westminster Kennel Club (WKC) 136th Annual Dog Show.

“The AKC Canine Health Foundation is extremely proud and honored to be chosen by the Westminster Kennel Club as this year’s beneficiary of the proceeds from their poster sales,” said CHF Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel Terry Warren. “This significant donation is furthering our funding of sound, scientific research and the dissemination of health information that is helping dogs live longer, healthier lives.”

Each year, WKC selects a canine-related charity or organization to receive proceeds from its prestigious show’s poster sales. WKC conducts a contest, sponsored and judged by the New York Academy of Art, to design the official poster.

Chris Duke, an accomplished illustrator from New Hartford, Conn., designed the 2012 pen, ink and watercolor poster, which was selected top choice out of 23 entries.  The 2011 WKC Best in Show winner GCH Foxcliffe Hickory Wind, a Scottish Deerhound better known as Hickory, served as Duke’s inspiration for her winning entry, which also features other breeds in their respective judging groups.

“I spent a while with Hickory’s photos on my drawing board. I fell in love with her expression and bearing,” said Duke, who owns a Boston Terrier named Lucy. “I decided to feature Hickory central [in the design] surrounded by groupings of seven breeds. I also decided to feature a scene of the winning moment when Hickory was awarded Best in Show.”

Duke is particularly proud that sales of the poster will benefit all canines. “I love the commitment of the AKC Canine Health Foundation to the health of dogs and to the important research they foster,” said Duke, who plans on attending the upcoming show.

Posters can be ordered here. They also will be available for purchase at the WKC 136th Annual Dog Show at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Feb. 13-14, 2012.

"The poster makes a great holiday or personal gift,” Warren said. “Plus, it is a great way to support the Foundation’s ongoing research and education efforts that help prevent, treat and cure canine diseases.”