Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Joins AKC Canine Health Foundation to Support Canine Health Research Fellowships

MEDIA CONTACT:
Bradford Brady
Director of Development & Communications
AKC Canine Health Foundation
Phone: 919-334-4023
E-mail: bradford.brady@akcchf.org

NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

RALEIGH, NC (May 30, 2018) – The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF), a non-profit organization committed to better health for all dogs, is pleased to accept a $50,000 donation from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) in support of CHF’s Clinician Scientist Fellowship Program. With this donation, OFA surpasses $500,000 in cumulative contributions to CHF over a productive 20-year partnership.

The OFA has generously supported CHF research on numerous canine health topics including musculoskeletal disease, thyroid disease, genetics, oncology, and neurology. The foundations co-sponsored the creation of the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC), which partners with American Kennel Club (AKC) parent breed clubs for research and to maintain information on health issues of dogs. OFA has also sponsored the Veterinary Student Scholarship program, hosting students from US schools of veterinary medicine to attend CHF’s biennial National Parent Club Canine Health Conference.

“Understanding the need to develop and support the next generation of researchers, the OFA is especially pleased to announce a $50,000 contribution to the AKC CHF’s Clinician Scientist Fellowship Program,” states OFA Chief Operating Officer, Eddie Dziuk.

CHF makes it a priority to encourage and support educational opportunities for trainees in canine health research. The Clinician Scientist Fellowship Program was established in 2012 to provide financial support to residents and graduate students demonstrating promise and enthusiasm for pursuing a career in canine health research. CHF also collaborates with the AKC and the Theriogenology Foundation to provide educational grants for residency programs in theriogenology (animal reproductive health) and clinical genetics. CHF also provides support for veterinary students through educational grants for canine health projects mentored by foundation staff and CHF-funded researchers. These examples of CHF’s funding for educational programs ensure that their mission to prevent, treat and cure canine disease will endure for years to come.

“Investing in the next generation of scientists is a vital part of our mission,” says Dr. Diane Brown, Chief Executive Officer of CHF. “We welcome the OFA’s shared commitment to encourage and support these young researchers. Together, we are making a positive impact on the future for canine health.”

Dziuk says the OFA “can think of no better collaborative partner in our joint efforts to advance the health of dogs.”

To learn more about CHF’s commitment to training grants for future scientists, please see CHF’s educational grants.

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About CHF
Since 1995, the Raleigh, NC-based AKC Canine Health Foundation has leveraged the power of science and research to improve the lives of dogs. The Foundation works to prevent, treat and cure diseases that impact all dogs, while providing professional information and resources for a new breed of dog owner. Take action because you care; find out more online at www.akcchf.org.

About OFA
Founded in 1966, the OFA mission is to promote the health and welfare of companion animals through a reduction in the incidence of genetic disease. This is accomplished thru maintenance of an extensive database of canine genealogic and phenotypic information, a DNA repository for research and testing, and funding research on numerous canine health concerns.