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RVC student Simone Ku wins the Undergraduate Student Inspiration Award.

An RVC undergraduate is among the winners.

The Kennel Club’s International Canine Health Awards has revealed the winners of its 2024 categories.

Seven award winners have been named for the accolades, which celebrate excellence in canine research, health and welfare.

Among the winners is Simone Ku, a fourth-year undergraduate from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC). Ms Ku receives the Undergraduate Student Inspiration Award for her holistic perspective on advanced canine pain therapy.

Ms Ku was inspired to enter her field after her canine companion, Smudge, was diagnosed with Fanconi syndrome and arthritis. She saw the importance of diagnosis and tailored medication to pain management.

She researches as part of a VetCompass project, which examines the potential uses of gabapentin – a treatment used for both dogs and humans.

Ms Ku said: “I am delighted and incredibly grateful to receive this award. It not only reaffirms my commitment to advancing canine health but also serves as a powerful endorsement of the importance of research into canine pain management, a cornerstone of compassionate care.”

Cathryn Mellersh, of the University of Cambridge, receives the Lifetime Achievement Award – her second win after being the co-recipient of the International Award in 2015.

For nearly 20 years, Dr Mellersh’s research has explored the genetic basis of inherited diseases in dogs. This has led to the identification of over 30 different disease-associated variants, which contribute to DNA tests around the world.

Dr Mellersh said: “This award means a huge amount to me, and I would like to thank everyone who nominated me for it. I have been lucky enough to spend my career combining my fascination with genetics with my love of dogs, and to achieve this award, for doing a job I love so much, is fantastic.

The winner of the Alan Kelly International Achievement Award is Nicola Mason, recognised for her work on vaccines and cellular immunotherapies for dogs with cancer.

The British-born professor, who researches at the University of Pennsylvania, focuses on a One Health approach to veterinary medicine. Her clinical research into the treatment of dogs with osteosarcoma was noticed by paediatric oncologists, prompting a clinical trial to consider Dr Mason’s approach for the treatment of children.

Dr Mason continues to study cellular and biological therapies, which harness the immune system to tackle other disease processes.

Sharon Springel is the winner of the Breed Health Co-ordinator Award, in recognition of her 27 years of work with Leonbergers, particularly with improving their health.

Ms Springel is a member of the Leonberger Club of Great Britain. Under her guidance, the group has organised multiple blood sampling opportunities for DNA research, developed safeguarding schemes and promoted education on the breed.

There were two Special Award recipients this year.

The first went to Cindy Otto, of the University of Pennsylvania, for her work on the health, genetics and behaviour of detection dogs.

The second award went to the Ishikawa Veterinary Medicine Association. After an earthquake hit the Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan on Honshu Island in January 2024, 78 volunteers rescued and treated hundreds of dogs affected by the disaster.

Andrew Higgins, chairman of the awards, said: “I would like to congratulate all the winners for their impressive work so far and everyone involved in the awards are excited to see what is next for these talented individuals.”

Images © The Kennel Club

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