The AKC is constantly working on ways to expand our reach and our mission. While many changes are happening behind the scenes, it is my pleasure to make you aware of some of the initiatives our dedicated staff have been working on this month.
Natural Disaster Relief Efforts
The American Kennel Club and its affiliates (the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Reunite and the AKC Canine Health Foundation) have risen to the challenge of helping pets and their owners that are victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria and the wildfires out west. We know that the recovery will be long and arduous and we are committed to being of assistance as long as necessary. The response to these efforts has been extraordinary.
The AKC Humane Fund donated $10,000 and an AKC Pet Disaster Relief Trailer to the City of Houston to help with rescue and recovery efforts. The AKC Shop raised over $10,000 through sales with its “Texas Strong” initiative.
AKC Reunite has raised over $350,000 through generous donations from clubs, exhibitors, organizations and animal lovers. 100% of the funds raised through AKC Reunite are going toward the general pet care and supplies needed to safely shelter displaced pets while their families rebuild and find themselves in a better situation to care for their pets. AKC Reunite has donated much-needed supplies and made cash grants to major animal sheltering organizations in the following impacted counties: Harris (Houston), Galveston, Brazoria (South of Galveston), Jefferson (Beaumont and Port Arthur) and Aransas (Rockport). Donations have also gone to shelters impacted by Hurricane Irma in the Jacksonville and southeastern areas of Florida. Over $100,000 has already been donated to first-responding organizations, with more on the way. Our hearts and prayers go out to everyone affected by these events. For more information on Pet Disaster Relief please go to www.akcreunite.org.
AKC Flagship Responsible Dog Ownership Event
The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) held its 15th annual Responsible Dog Ownership Day at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh on September 9th, 2017. The family-friendly event celebrates the human-canine bond and helps educate first-time and potential dog owners about the responsibilities of dog ownership through a Meet the Breeds educational experience, dog sports, demonstrations, AKC title testing (CGC, Trick Dog, etc.), games, raffles and more.
AKC’s flagship RDO Day hosted approximately 4,000-5,000 people throughout the five hours that it ran. The 2017 RDO had the highest number AKC Canine Good Citizen® tests ever given and AKC’s My Dog Can Do That! runs. A raffle was held which raised over $1,000 to support AKC Pet Disaster Relief. There was also a record number of children that participated in the scavenger hunt (Y-Guides). A fun and educational time was had by all. Thank you to the North Carolina Fairgrounds, AKC Staff and all of the participants that came out to learn about how to be responsible dog owners.
The AKC Humane Fund and Domestic Violence Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Did you know nationwide studies have shown that over 70% of battered women reported that their abusers had harmed, killed or threatened their animals? Pets are often the silent victims in these situations. We believe in the power of the animal-human bond and that a victim should never have to choose between their safety and their pet. The AKC Humane Fund is proud to be the leading organization that provides financial assistance to domestic abuse shelters that accept pets. Our grants make it easier for women’s shelters to welcome pets and help break the cycle of domestic abuse. This fund has allowed us to help several shelters nationwide and we want that work to continue and grow. Now is the perfect time to join us in this effort of keeping pets and their owners safe. Learn more about the AKC Humane Fund or donate to the effort by going to www.akchumanefund.org.
This is a brief overview of some of the happenings at the AKC and ways in which we are carrying out our mission. We are proud to share our commitment to purebred dogs with you. Look for more updates next month.
Sincerely,
Ron Menaker, Chairman
Dennis Sprung, President & CEO