RALEIGH, N.C. — Nonprofit organization AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) announced March 30 that pet food company Purina has donated $99,230 to aid in canine health research. Purina raised the money through its Purina Parent Club Partnership (PPCP) program.

Purina’s program allows Purina Pro Club members to earn points by purchasing select Purina pet food products, which then go toward Purina’s annual donation to the club’s Donor Advised Fund at CHF. The PPCP program was founded in 2002 and has since donated more than $8.6 million to aid breed rescue and educational efforts, as well as canine health research.

CHF also announced that Scott Smith, managing director of Purina’s Professional Engagement Team, has been appointed to the organization’s board of directors, succeeding Ann Viklund.

"We are proud to begin the 20th year of the PPCP Program," Smith said. "The program's success is tied to the commitment of dog breeders and owners who choose to support their breed's health through PPCP and CHF-funded research. The shared goals and collaborative efforts of Purina and CHF are providing a healthy future for all dogs."

Also succeeding Viklund is Duane Butherus, Ph.D., current board member, who will serve as CHF’s new board secretary.

"Viklund's contributions to CHF and its mission over the past decade have been immeasurable," said Darin Collins, Ph.D., chief executive officer, CHF. "We wish her all the best in retirement and know that dogs will continue to enrich her life during this next chapter."

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