Allowing mixed breed dogs in AKC Junior Handler Competitions, let me share my opinion. Where there are any two people involved in our sport, there are three opinions.
Allow me to share mine. Life is always changing. I hope to never become one of those old fogies stuck in the past. However, there is something to be treasured about the good old days. They aren’t called that for nothing.
As a participant in American Kennel Club’s activities for the past ** years (well, let’s just say my age qualified me to be one of those eligible for early COVID-19 vaccinations), I have always had the greatest love and respect for the AKC!
As we form opinions on new programs and changes to what we’ve become accustomed to, let’s review our AKC Mission Statement:
With all due respect to our well-meaning officials, and the integrity and personalities of all dog lovers, I have conflicted feelings regarding allowing mixed breed dogs, registered as Canine Partners, to be allowed to be exhibited in Junior Showmanship in a pilot program beginning January 1, 2022. The struggle between adhering to the principles of our AKC Mission Statement and profiting need not be conflicting.
We want to encourage youth to become a part of our American Kennel Club’s heritage events. They are our future. Our basic dreams are the same. However, the methods of reaching our goals seem be taking different paths!
COVID-19 has shut down 4-H programs all across the country for the time being.
My own Greenville Kennel Club has already been working with 4-H youth, developing exciting ways to engage them at our dog shows. Soon I will be sharing our experiences and the results we achieve.
AKC MISSION STATEMENT
The American Kennel Club is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Founded in 1884, the AKC® and its affiliated organizations advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership.
Objective
- Advance the study, breeding, exhibiting, running and maintenance of purebred dogs.
Core Values
- We love purebred dogs.
- We are committed to advancing the sport of the purebred dog.
- We are dedicated to maintaining the integrity of our Registry.
- We protect the health and well-being of all dogs.
- We cherish dogs as companions.
- We are committed to the interests of dog owners.
- We uphold high standards for the administration and operation of
the AKC. - We recognize the critical importance of our clubs and volunteers.
Show Comments