By Megan Mattravers
In August I had the opportunity to attend the AKC National Parent Club Canine Health Conference, and learn about cutting-edge research focused on improving canine health. The conference included three days of presentations by veterinarians and researchers whose projects had been funded by the AKC, Purina and the Canine Health Foundation.
The conference also encouraged networking and interacting with delegates from breed clubs, renowned scientists, veterinary students from other schools and AKC officials. The veterinary students were managed by Eddie Dzuik, who owns the two most recent Beagles (Miss P and Uno) to win Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club. Listening to his stories and experiences were definite highlights to the trip!
Notable presentations included The Human-Animal Bond/Quality of Life (Dr. Alice Villalobos), Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease (Dr. Dominique Griffon), Personalized Cancer Treatment (Dr. Dough Thamm) and the new Purina Bright Minds formula (Dr. Yuanlong Pan).
The conference was sponsored by Purina and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Together, these organizations are trying to improve the health and breeding of purebred dogs through supporting canine research and providing top quality educational opportunities to breed clubs, veterinarians and veterinary students.
