The Robert Cabral Educational Scholarship is awarded to one dedicated individual working or volunteering in the animal shelter field. This scholarship provides financial assistance to attend the upcoming IACP Annual Educational Conference in Newport Beach, California, offering valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and connection within the canine professional community.

In addition to attending the IACP Conference, the selected recipient will receive complimentary access to Robert Cabral's Shelter Dog Training Course, a comprehensive program designed to enhance skills and improve outcomes for shelter dogs, valued at $1,500.

This scholarship is personally funded by Robert Cabral, reflecting his commitment to supporting those who are making a direct impact in the lives of shelter dogs.

Robert Cabral Educational
Scholarship Qualifications

Applicants must complete this form.

1. Previous recipients may not re-apply.
2. Applicants must be over the age of 18 years old.
3. Applicants must write and submit an essay (500-1000 word) detailing:
   a. What drives your commitment to working with shelter dogs, and how has that shaped your approach to dog training?
   b. Detailed information as to why the applicant believes attendance at the Annual Educational Conference would be important to the applicant.
4. Applicants must include a photograph of themselves, which, if selected, will be used in IACP media materials. 
5. Recipients receive One (1) admission ticket to in-person attendance at the IACP Annual Educational Conference. In-person attendance includes all benefits and restrictions of a paid ticket holder.  
6. In addition to the conference ticket, a one time allotment of $800.00 (USD) may be used to cover travel expenses, lodging accommodations and expenses, such as pet care while the recipient travels to conference. All travel arrangements are the responsibility of the recipient. 
7. Recipients will also receive complimentary access to Robert Cabral's Shelter Dog Training Course, a comprehensive program designed to enhance skills and improve outcomes for shelter dogs, valued at $1,500.
8. One recipient will be selected from the applications submitted. 
9. This award may not be transferred.
10. This award has no cash value. 
11. If recipient is unable to attend the conference, the one-time allotment must be paid back to the IACP or scholarship granter.

 

Important 2026 Dates

Applications must be received by May 15, 2026.
Recipients will be notified on or before June 1, 2026.
Results will be announced to membership on or before June 15, 2026.