AKC: Enhancements To Canine Partners Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 18, 2010
Email: communications@akc.org

AKC ANNOUNCES ENHANCEMENTS TO THE AKC CANINE PARTNERS PROGRAM

New York, NY- At the January meeting the AKC Board of Directors voted to amend the Obedience, Rally and Agility regulations to allow mixed breed dogs to compete in the same classes and earn the same titles as purebreds. In addition, all clubs holding an AKC Obedience, Rally or Agility trial will have the option to accept entries for mixed-breed dogs enrolled in the Canine Partners Program.

“One of the main goals of this program is to reach more dog owners with the responsible dog ownership message and help them enrich their relationship with their dog,” said AKC President and CEO Dennis Sprung. “We are pleased to expand the option for participation in Canine Partners to more AKC clubs and provide mixed breed dog owners more opportunities to compete in eligible AKC Companion events.”

Starting April 1, 2010, dogs with an AKC Canine Partners listing number will be eligible to participate in AKC Agility, Obedience and Rally trials accepting mixed breed entries.

Some program benefits include a complimentary 60-Day trial of the AKC Pet Healthcare Plan, a one-year subscription to AKC Family Dog magazine, an AKC Canine Partners Certificate and an AKC Canine Partners Decal. The Canine Partners listing is available to spayed and neutered dogs that are not currently eligible for AKC registration, AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS) enrollment or an AKC Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL).

For more information about the AKC Canine Partners program, please visit www.akccaninepartners.org

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The American Kennel Club (AKC), proudly celebrated its 125th Anniversary in 2009. Since 1884 the not-for-profit organization has maintained the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, and today its rules govern more than 20,000 canine competitions each year. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its more than 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org. AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.