The American Kennel Club (AKC®), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and advocate for all dogs, is pleased to announce the opening of submissions for the 2023 AKC My Canine & Me award. This award honors children and young adults who are making a positive impact on the world with their dogs or achieving personal growth by utilizing their knowledge of dogs and their dog ownership.
To be considered, students must be nominated by a parent, teacher, mentor or another adult familiar with their efforts. Students must be in good academic standing and show proof by submitting a report card (for grades K-8), GPA (Grades 9-12) or school transcript with their application.
Applications should also include a 500-word-or-less essay about the bond between the child and their dog, and the reason for the nomination.
One award will be given in each of the following categories:
Personal Achievement Award: Celebrating children who have overcome personal challenges with the help of their dog.
Influential Junior Award: Children demonstrating leadership skills with their dog during after-school activities or gatherings and inspiring their peers and teachers as a result.
Innovative Junior Award: Celebrating children who have excelled in honing their creativity through training skills with their dogs.
Community Achievement Award: Celebrating juniors who show commitment and passion through fundraising and contributing to their community for the welfare of dogs.
Winners will be announced annually and awarded $1,000 scholarships which can be used towards tuition, additional training classes or another dog-related activity. Additionally, they will receive a plaque honoring their achievement and a mention and interview on AKC.TV.
Nominations will be accepted through August 31st, 2023 and should be submitted here.
Academic documents (i.e. report card, GPA, transcript) should be sent to communications@akc.org.