Anyone over the age of 18 can receive an AKC PupPals message! This program is designed to bring happiness to people who are struggling through a difficult time. We just ask that if you are interested in sending a PupPals message to a minor, instead, send it to their parent/guardian. If the intended recipient is unable to receive videos, please contact: publiced@akc.org.

Unfortunately, no. We do not have the ability to let you choose which adorable video your nominee receives. But we promise they’re all incredibly smile-worthy!

Once a dog’s owner submits their video and information, there’s no additional communication each time their video is sent. We do this to make sure that personal information from all sides—the sender, the recipient, and the dog owner—is kept confidential.

Along with a child’s parent, a teacher is often the first to know that a child is having a hard time. We encourage any teacher/coach etc. who believes a minor would benefit from this program to send the PupPals message to the child’s parent/guardian.

PupPals messages are usually sent digitally within approximately 8-10 business days.

Anyone can help write PupPals cards, however, the person in charge of applying and organizing this must be an adult. For example, an adult can organize a volunteer event at a school or youth organization where minors can help write and decorate PupPals cards. The adult would be responsible for receiving the cards, explaining the instructions to volunteers, and returning the cards once completed.

PupPals cards are sent to communities and organizations who are need of uplifting. Some examples are: hospitals, military bases, communities experiencing tragic loss, and others.

It will typically take 5 – 10 business days unless our team is traveling for an AKC event.

There is no specific deadline, however, we do ask that you try to complete the PupPals cards within 1 month of receiving them. This ensures that we have cards readily available to send to recipients. 

To ensure that each PupPals’ individual story is consistent and accurate, we have provided a template with specific information on each PupPals that should not be changed. Feel free to unleash your artistic abilities by getting creative with decorations and drawings in the card.