Gina DiNardo shares AKC updates on scholarships, ACE Awards, Meet the Breeds, and federal legislation supporting dogs and owners.
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At the AKC, we’re proud to support the people and programs that make a real difference for dogs every day. Below are a few updates I’m pleased to share, from scholarships and award opportunities through the AKC Humane Fund to a successful AKC Meet the Breeds, and encouraging progress on federal legislation that impacts dogs and their owners.
Applications are now open for the 2026 AKC Humane Fund Sir John D. Spurling Scholarship. This program supports five full-time students who are pursuing studies that advance canine care, welfare, and responsible pet ownership—including those dedicated to careers in veterinary medicine and related fields.
Each recipient will receive a $2,000 scholarship, paid directly to their educational institution. Applications must be submitted or postmarked by July 1, 2026.
To learn more about the scholarship and how to apply, visit: https://akchumanefund.org/john-d-spurling-scholarship-application/.
Additional information about the AKC Humane Fund is available at: www.akchumanefund.org.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE). Each year, these awards recognize dogs, and teams of dogs, whose work has a meaningful impact in their communities.
Last year’s honorees ranged from dogs providing comfort during wildfires to those detecting bacteria that threaten bee populations. In 2026, ACE will again include expanded categories such as Teams, Search & Rescue—Disaster Response, and Search & Rescue—Human Detection. Nominations close July 1, 2026.
It is our honor to recognize amazing dogs each year and share their stories with dog lovers everywhere.
To nominate a deserving dog or team, visit: https://akchumanefund.org/ace-awards/.
AKC Meet the Breeds returned to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City on February 7–8, 2026 and marked our largest event to date. More than 38,000 attendees and 140-plus breeds came together for a weekend focused on learning, connection, and celebrating dogs. The event had exciting demonstrations throughout the day and a wildly popular kid zone, all designed to celebrate dogs.
This event continues to be one of our most effective ways to educate the public about our breeds and their purpose, and responsible dog ownership, while reinforcing AKC as a trusted resource for all things dogs. It would not be possible without the dedication of our staff, sponsors, and especially the exhibitors, clubs, and dogs who bring this event to life and make it such a meaningful experience for everyone involved.
The AKC is encouraged by draft language in the House 2026 Farm Bill that strengthens protections for dogs and supports responsible ownership. The bill reauthorizes key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs and advances important priorities under the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA).
Notably, the legislation includes enhanced protections for dogs under the AWA, expanded resources for education and outreach, and additional support for USDA enforcement efforts, including reporting to Congress with recommendations to improve oversight. The bill also clarifies animal care requirements by reinforcing that visual dental examinations are part of existing annual veterinary care standards.
In addition, the measure improves USDA response when dogs are found to be in a state of unrelieved suffering by requiring more timely notification of state and local authorities when unacceptable conditions are identified.
We appreciate the leadership of House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson and his team, and urge the Committee to move these positive provisions forward without amendment.
To learn more about the bill, visit: https://www.akc.org/press-releases/akc-lauds-house-farm-bills-priorities-for-animal-welfare-and-protections-for-dogs-and-their-owners/.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of the AKC. Your involvement is what keeps us moving forward and doing important work for dogs.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
