Impact Stories
In science, progress is measured in small steps along the way to major discoveries. By consistently funding the most innovative research, the AKC Canine Health Foundation is realizing both small milestones and major breakthroughs in canine health. Your support helps us progress towards our goal to prevent, treat and cure canine disease.
Effie's Tale July 1, 2021
Learn how one owner’s tragic loss of her dog to a killer cancer fueled her passion to help fund research into early detection—and hopefully, a cure.
A Fighting Chance Against Hemangiosarcoma May 26, 2021
A profile of Chesapeake Bay Retriever "Ruger" and his participation in a CHF-funded clinical trial.
Genetic Mutation Discovered for Mucopolysaccharidosis in Miniature Pinschers November 27, 2020
To further define the genetic mutation(s) that cause muchopolysaccharidosis VI in dogs, CHF-funded investigators analyzed DNA in the area that codes for the affected enzyme in Miniature Pinschers and Miniature Schnauzers.
AKC Canine Health Foundation Funded Study of 9/11 Search and Rescue Dogs Enters its Fourteenth Year November 24, 2015
A long-term medical surveillance study which has followed the search and rescue dogs of 9/11 enters its fourteenth year. The study, conducted by Dr. Cindy Otto of the University of Pennsylvania Penn Vet Working Dog Center and funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation has followed the health and behavior of the 9/11 dogs since October 2001.
Cancer in Dogs Helps to Inform Human Disease September 18, 2015
AKC Canine Health Foundation contributes funding to research linked to discovering new treatment options to benefit both dogs and humans.
Finding Better Options for Joint Repair with Regenerative Medicine February 14, 2014
One of the most common injuries of the stifle is rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). Surgery can repair the ligament, but it does not necessarily help restore other damaged joint tissues. Fortunately, the emerging field of regenerative medicine gives hope that it might be possible to generate such replacement tissues in the lab.
The Big (and Small) Six February 12, 2014
Recently researchers determined that approximately half of the weight differences seen across dog breeds can be explained by variations in and around only six genes. Studies such as this one can provide insight into some of the size differences seen in humans as well as growth-related health concerns in dogs and humans.
Investigating Influenza February 10, 2014
In the middle of winter, it sometimes seems like everyone is down with the flu. However, humans aren’t the only species that can suffer from influenza. Dogs can get it too, and a few years back a novel strain of influenza began showing up in the canine population. With the support of the AKC Canine Health Foundation researchers set out to track the virus across the United States.
Using Technology to Track Disease January 13, 2014
Leptospirosis, which is caused by a waterborne parasite, can infect both dogs and humans. Without effective treatment, it can cause serious kidney and liver damage. It can even lead to death. Researchers from the University of California-Davis have been investigating the spread of leptospirosis using specialized mapping programs.
New Treatment Goes After Notoriously Tough Cancer Stem Cells November 25, 2013
Canine hemangiosarcoma is relatively common in companion animals. It is also relatively difficult to treat, as they quickly become resistant to conventional forms of therapy. Scientists from the University of Minnesota wondered if targeted toxins might be an effective way of addressing cancers. The results were quite promising.
Help Future Generations of Dogs
Participate in canine health research by providing samples or by enrolling in a clinical trial. Samples are needed from healthy dogs and dogs affected by specific diseases.
