-- AKC Canine Health Resource Center
--
As I
reported in my
November 2008 Chairman’s Report we know that canine health
remains a top priority for AKC, its parent clubs, and all
responsible breeders. In that report I outlined the resources
available to the responsible breeder from a variety of sources such
as the AKC Breeders’ Department and the AKC Canine Health Foundation
(AKC CHF). I also highlighted parent clubs’ initiatives contributing
to the continued good health of purebred dogs.
This month I’m pleased to announce that AKC has created a new online
Canine Health Resource Center at: www.akcdoghealth.com. This
comprehensive website pulls together the latest in canine health
research news, access to major health registries, archives of
educational podcasts, newsletters and articles, and links to find
the latest information about genetic tests available to help
eradicate diseases in dogs.
We have organized the site into several sections including one
devoted to AKC CHF and one to the major canine health registries –
the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the Canine Eye
Registration Foundation (CERF). Responsible breeders depend on these
online research tools when selecting animals to include in breeding
programs. Additionally, the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC),
listing participating parent clubs, specific tests, and screening
results for an even wider range of genetic tests, can be easily
accessed from this new site.
In addition to information for breeders we have included a
“Resources For Dog Lovers” section with links to materials on
Responsible Breeding Practices, How to Find a Responsible Breeder,
our Compliance Program, What Puppy Buyers Need to Know About AKC
Papers & Identification, AKC CHF Canine Health Fact Sheet, AKC
Veterinary Network, and Puppy Buyer tips that help puppy buyers
avoid scams.
We are proud of our continuing support of canine health and invite
you, whether a longtime breeder or a first-time dog owner, to visit
this new site for a roundup of information and initiatives that
promotes happy, healthy dogs.
Sincerely,
