September 7, 2005

The Kennel Club and The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, based in England, voted Tuesday to make a combined 10,000-pound donation to help canine victims of Hurricane Katrina. The organizations will donate the money through the American Kennel Club/Companion Animal Recovery Canine Support and Relief Fund, which is working with AKC national breed clubs, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Louisiana State University Veterinary School, the Houston Kennel Club, and the Florida Association of Kennel Clubs to provide aid where it is needed most.

"We were deeply saddened by the news of the hurricane and the significant loss of life, both human and canine," said Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary. "The American Kennel Club has acted quickly to try and alleviate the suffering of the canine victims in this disaster and we are pleased to be able to offer some financial assistance to their invaluable work."

AKC Chairman Ron Menaker said, "We are highly appreciative of this generous contribution by the Kennel Club. This donation reflects the traditional cooperation of our two kennel clubs."

AKC President and CEO Dennis B. Sprung called the donation "considerable" in light of the fact that "100 percent of the donated funds go directly to helping animals with no funds used for administrative purposes."

Clubs, shelters, or individuals in need of assistance can check the AKC website, or call (800) 252-7894.