The American Kennel Club (AKC), through its affiliate organization AKC Companion Animal Recovery (AKC/CAR), established the AKC/CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund in 2001. It was designed as a permanent, charitable fund to provide resources, support, funds, and other assistance to not-for-profit animal shelters and similar not-for-profit organizations providing care for domestic animals orphaned or displaced as a result of natural or civil disasters.

Since the fund was formed, we have responded to the needs of many organizations involved in disaster relief including those who worked tirelessly during the events of September 11 th, and more recently to those providing assistance during and after California’s devastating wildfires in 2003. This month we have responded to the need for help in the parts of Florida that have been devastated by Hurricanes Charley and Frances.

Working closely with The Florida Association of Kennel Clubs (FAKC), the AKC and AKC/CAR made batteries, flashlights, film, water, microchips, scanners, crates, a water purifier, space blankets, leashes, collars, fencing and more available to temporary shelters in Wauchula and then Arcadia, FL after Hurricane Charley. Additional donations were made available by Hartz Mountain Corporation, which sent a large donation of flea and tick spray/shampoo and hundreds of dog collars, Purina, which offered significant amounts of dog and cat food, Cherrybrook, Inc., provided crates, space blankets, ex-pens, collars, leashes, fencing at a special AKC rate, and Northwest Airlines, which provided transportation for displaced or abandoned dogs to new homes around the country.

Much has been done but a need still exists. As of this writing, Florida braces for another storm (Hurricane Ivan) while simultaneously trying to recover from the earlier devastation left behind by Charley and Frances. The AKC will continue its commitment to the animals and working volunteers in the areas in Florida. While we can only hope that our assistance won’t be needed, we will monitor the situation as it develops and be ready to mobilize efforts. As always, I appreciate your concern for our fellow fanciers and your generous support.

Ron Menaker

Chairman

Tax-deductible donations to the AKC/CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund may be sent to:

 

AKC/CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund
American Kennel Club

260 Madison Avenue, 4th Fl

New York, NY 10016-2401

Contributions made to AKC/CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund are used to immediately purchase needed equipment and supplies and deliver them directly to contact centers. Please note on the check that monies should go towards helping the victims of the Florida disaster.