— AKC Canine Health Resource Center at www.akcdoghealth.com —
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,
Ron Menaker
Chairman