AKC Canine Health Foundation Announces Matching Funds for Canine Cancer Research

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sharon M. Albright, DVM, CCRT
Manager of Communications & Veterinary Outreach
AKC Canine Health Foundation
Phone: 919-334-4019
E-mail: sharon.albright@akcchf.org

NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

RALEIGH, NC (October 5, 2022) – The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the health of all dogs, announces matching funds for canine cancer research. Starting October 1, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States (RRCUS) (via its RRDAF and Nancy Krupa Fund) and the Rhodesian Ridgeback Charitable Foundation (RRCF) will match donations to CHF-funded cancer research up to $30,000 as part of a three-year, $90,000 pledge to fight canine cancer.

Since 1995, CHF and its donors have invested more than $17 million in 250+ canine cancer research grants. These studies improve our understanding of canine cancer, providing breakthroughs that allow veterinarians to diagnose cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. Since there are similarities among many canine and human cancers, what we learn in one species may benefit both.

“Now, more than ever, it is important to continue our support of research, especially cancer research, so that advances can be made in cancer detection, treatment and even prevention.” says RRCUS Health & Genetics Committee Co-Chair, Nancy A. Rich, DVM. “We proudly support CHF-funded cancer research to bring us closer to these goals for all of our beloved Ridgebacks.”

“Cancer is a disease that impacts all dog breeds,” says Jeff Nearhoof, RRCF Treasurer. “While progress has been made in understanding the disease, there is an urgency to do more now. RRCF is proud to support this challenge to raise needed dollars to foster knowledge, helping researchers find solutions.”

One quarter of CHF’s active research funding is typically devoted to canine cancer research – studying cancers that affect all dogs such as lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, brain tumors, and more. Current studies are evaluating the use of advanced imaging to improve surgical margins, use of a new technology to treat bone cancer, and clinical trials evaluating repurposed drugs and novel cancer therapies.

“CHF is honored to work with dedicated groups such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States and the Rhodesian Ridgeback Charitable Foundation to advance the health of all dogs,” says Dr. Darin Collins, CHF Chief Executive Officer. “Matching funds from these groups allow dog lovers to double the impact of their support for canine cancer research.”

Learn more about CHF’s commitment to fighting canine cancer at akcchf.org/caninecancer.

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About CHF
Since 1995, the AKC Canine Health Foundation has leveraged the power of science to address the health needs of all dogs. With more than $66 million in funding to date, the Foundation provides grants for the highest quality canine health research and shares information on the discoveries that help prevent, treat and cure canine diseases. The Foundation meets and exceeds industry standards for fiscal responsibility, as demonstrated by their highest four-star Charity Navigator rating and Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency. Learn more at www.akcchf.org.