The Canadian Kennel Club Foundation (CKCF), established in 2008, has concluded its work in supporting canine wellbeing through research, community programs, and education on the benefits of dogs.
The CKCF has been dormant for several years, and in 2025 the Board of Directors made the decision to dissolve the organization. In keeping with its mission, the Foundation awarded three final research grants this past year to the Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire at Université de Montréal and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Calgary.
Université de Montréal – Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire:
- Efficacy of Zonisamide in Dogs with Idiopathic Epilepsy: This study is testing how well a medication called Zonisamide works for dogs with epilepsy. The results could give vets another tool to help manage seizures and improve quality of life for affected dogs.
- Discovery of a Novel Canine Red Blood Cell Antigen: This research is focused on identifying a new type of blood marker in dogs. Learning more about it could help improve the safety and success of blood transfusions for dogs in need.
University of Calgary – Faculty of Veterinary Medicine:
- Revolutionizing Cardiac Ultrasound Training: A Comparative Evaluation of Didactic Training, Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation, and Traditional Hands-On Methods – This project is exploring new ways to teach veterinary students how to perform heart ultrasounds. By comparing virtual reality technology with traditional training methods, the goal is to make learning more effective and ensure future vets are better equipped to care for dogs with heart problems.
As part of this funding, both universities have agreed to share updates on their research with the CKC, ensuring CKC members will learn more about the progress and outcomes of these important projects.
The CKC extends its gratitude to all members and supporters who contributed to the Foundation’s work over the years. Together, these efforts have made a lasting impact on canine health research and education in Canada.