Zoe Brewer, showing her dog at the Bulldog Club of America National 2026. | Photo courtesy of Zoe Brewer.
Florida Southern College freshman Zoe Brewer has been selected as one of five students nationwide to receive the 2026 Sir John D. Spurling Scholarship from the American Kennel Club Humane Fund, for her commitment to canine health and responsible pet ownership.
The scholarship recognizes students whose academic pursuits and experiences contribute to the well-being of dogs and the advancement of responsible pet ownership. For Brewer, a double major in Biology and Business Administration on the pre-veterinary track, the award reflects her passion for animal care, which has grown through years of hands-on experience and a goal to one day pursue veterinary medicine as a career.
Receiving the national scholarship was particularly meaningful for Brewer, who sees the recognition as an affirmation of the dedication she has put into developing her knowledge and experience.
“I feel honored and excited to be selected as a recipient for the 2026 Sir John D. Spurling Scholarship,” Brewer said. “It is a national scholarship with several people applying, so to be selected as one of the final five was huge.”
Brewer’s interest in canine and animal health began about six years ago, while helping her aunt care for her kennel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I fell in love with this bulldog puppy named Freddie and helped my aunt train him for dog shows,” Brewer said. “She did not get to show him that often, so I offered and was hooked from that point onward.”
Through her involvement in competitive dog shows, Brewer gained firsthand experience with the responsibilities of canine care, including nutrition, conditioning, health testing and responsible breeding. These experiences combined to shape her academic interests and strengthened her desire to learn more.
At Florida Southern, Brewer is continuing to build the academic foundation needed to pursue veterinary school. Through her coursework and involvement in the College’s pre-veterinary club, she is exploring the field and preparing to specialize in animal reproduction.
“I hope to use my education to make a positive impact on a variety of animals, particularly ones that other vets refused, and to provide welcoming care for owners and their animals,” Brewer said.
For Brewer, receiving the 2026 Sir John D. Spurling Scholarship is more than an academic achievement. It is recognition of a commitment she hopes to carry throughout her career. As she continues her education at Florida Southern, she looks forward to building on her experiences and using her knowledge to support the health and well-being of animals for years to come.
