From the beginning, the Foundation was designed as a cooperative partner to ASC, aligned in purpose and committed to advancing the welfare of Cocker Spaniels that bring so much joy to our lives. This structure has allowed the Foundation to amplify ASC’s mission—strengthening education, expanding rescue support, and investing in meaningful research that benefits both the breed and the broader canine community.
Over the decades, the ASC Foundation has earned a reputation as a trusted, responsible steward of health research funding. Although modest in size compared to some national canine foundations, our impact is significant. We have spent close to a quarter of a million dollars in our quest for health for Cocker Spaniels. Our largest supported research is on cataracts in Cocker Spaniels at the University of Pennsylvania, which has made steady progress over the past 10-plus years. Among our many supported research projects, we are currently supporting two unique to Cocker Spaniels.
Additionally, we have supported more than 40 AKC Canine Health Foundation research projects addressing oncology, epilepsy, autoimmune disorders, and other critical health concerns. By partnering with AKC CHF on fully vetted, large-scale studies, we ensure that every donor dollar works harder and reaches farther than it could on its own.
Today, the Foundation is actively supporting more than seven research initiatives—either directly or through AKC CHF—focused specifically on improving the health and future of Cocker Spaniels. None of this progress would be possible without the generosity of our donors. Every gift—whether $1, $5, $100, or more—directly fuels our ability to improve the lives of Cocker Spaniels through research, rescue, and education. Many supporters have also chosen to leave legacy gifts, allowing their love for the breed to make a lasting impact for generations to come. As ASC members and friends plan for the future, we hope they will consider including the Foundation in their estate plans to ensure that the breed they cherish continues to thrive.