AKC Calls On All Dog Organizations to Spread Responsible Dog Ownership Message This September

Annual AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day Encompasses Hundreds of Events and is “A Breed Apart”.

Each year, the American Kennel Club® (AKC®) calls on clubs and dog related organizations from around the country to participate in AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day, a nationwide initiative that educates the general public about the importance of being a responsible dog owner and celebrates the deep bond and reciprocal relationship between humans and their canine companions.

“Each year, the AKC invites its nearly 5,000 affiliated dog clubs - and all other pet-related organizations -- to educate the public in their community. We thank those who join us year after year and encourage organizations who have not yet held an event to step up to the challenge in 2007,” says AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “We want to host the biggest dog-loving block party America has ever seen!”

Events can be held anytime during the month of September. Sign up at www.akc.org/rdod and create an “Event Account” by August 1, 2007. The first 500 organizations who confirm the details of their event will receive a complimentary resource-filled packet including posters, brochures, balloons, stickers and many more materials to assist them in putting together an entertaining and informative event. All events will be listed on the AKC web site, searchable by state, beginning July 1.

“AKC RDO Day started out as a celebration of dogs and has evolved into a vehicle for encouraging dog-friendly solutions to problems often caused by a lack of knowledge about responsible dog ownership,” added Lisa Peterson. “This initiative has helped dedicated dog owners across the nation become more visible and influential with local legislators, news media and members of the public. It is a way to educate new and potential dog owners about the value of training, reputable breeders and AKC events.”

The AKC will hold flagship events in both New York City and Raleigh, North Carolina on September 15th, where its offices are located. Included will be activities such as AKC Canine Good Citizen® tests, Obedience/Agility/Rally demonstrations, ID clinics, breeder referral and rescue information, raffles, games and many more entertaining and educational events.

To learn more about AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day, sign up to hold an event or view photos and information about previous years’ events, please visit http://www.akc.org/clubs/rdod/