Kennel Club Charitable Trust

The Kennel Club Charitable Trust (KCCT), established in 1987 as the charitable arm of The Kennel Club—the UK's largest dog health and welfare organization—advances canine health and welfare for all dogs regardless of breed or background, while enhancing human well-being through the human-canine bond. Rooted in compassion, evidence-based action, and inclusivity, it prioritizes scientific research into genetics, cancer, and hereditary diseases; support and training for assistance dogs aiding people with disabilities or medical conditions; and welfare/rescue efforts for abused, neglected, or homeless dogs. Notable partnerships include the Animal Health Trust, University of Cambridge's VetCompass, and charities like Dogs for Good, Medical Detection Dogs, and Battersea, alongside bursaries for veterinary nursing and emergency aid for rescues.

It funds UK-registered charities and academic institutions operating UK-wide, from grassroots rescues to national organizations and universities, with no specified income thresholds but a preference for canine-focused projects demonstrating clear impact on dogs and people. No religious restrictions apply, and it supports diverse sizes without geographic sub-limits within the UK.

Typical grants range from £2,000 to £50,000 (often £5,000–£20,000), occasionally up to £100,000+ for major research, covering projects, equipment, emergency welfare, and rarely core costs—total annual spending around £1–1.5 million. Currently, KCCT accepts no unsolicited applications (check website for updates); historically, email/post submissions were reviewed quarterly (April, June, September, December).

Distinctively, as the UK's premier independent canine funder, it excludes non-canine, political, or building-only projects, emphasizing innovation, long-term partnerships, and no breed distinctions, setting it apart through deep sector expertise and integrated health-welfare-support portfolio.