AKC foundation funding research on canine athletes

The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation is calling for proposals for research on the health, well-being, and performance of canine athletes. At the same time, the foundation has issued its annual call for proposals for research in all areas of canine health.

In July 2012, the AKC Canine Health Foundation launched the Canine Athlete Initiative as a fundraising and public awareness campaign.

Dr. Shila Nordone, CHF chief scientific officer, said canine sports medicine and the health care of canine athletes are of growing importance. “CHF is committed to being on the forefront, providing grants for cutting-edge research into nutrition, conditioning and rehabilitation techniques so that dogs can achieve maximum performance while preventing injury. CHF will also support research into those areas that are critical after injury occurs, including orthopedics, osteoarthritis and pain management.”

In January, the foundation invited grant applications for basic and clinical research that will address the specific needs of canine athletes and working dogs. The CHF anticipates providing up to $500,000 in funding for such research.

Also in January, the foundation invited grant applications for research in other areas of canine health. The application and review process has changed substantially from previous years. Among other changes, applicants now must submit proposals for specific program areas.

The requests for proposals for research on canine athletes and in other program areas are available at www.akcchf.org/research by clicking on “Application Process” and then on “Research Program Areas.” May 31 is the deadline for proposals in most program areas.