AKC RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP DAYS RETURNS FOR ITS 16TH YEAR: HOST AN EVENT!

–Annual Event Educates Public on How to Be Effective Dog Owners–

New York, NY – The American Kennel Club^® (AKC®) is preparing for the 16^th annual AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day (AKC RDO Days). This summer and fall hundreds of clubs and dog organizations around the country will host free events to educate the dog-loving public about the responsibilities and boundless pleasures of dog ownership.

“AKC RDO Day is a great way for current and potential dog owners to share information and advice, have fun, and celebrate the unconditional love that our canine companions give us,” said AKC President and CEO Dennis B. Sprung. “Each year, the AKC invites its thousands of affiliated dog clubs and other pet-related organizations, to help educate the public in their areas. We thank those who join us each year and we challenge organizations that have not yet held an event to give it a try in 2018.”

Host an Event: All efforts are appreciated and welcomed, from hosting a public education table at a dog show or dog run to creating a day-long festival. The first 600 clubs and organizations that register at www.akc.org/rdod will receive a kit full of free giveaways and a searchable event listing on the AKC website. Some giveaways for 2018 include car decals and RDO wristbands.

AKC Flagship RDO Day: AKC will host the flagship Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 8^th in Raleigh, NC at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Dogs and their owners will be able to enjoy a lovely day of demonstrations, giveaways, games, microchipping clinics, Meet the Breeds and more. Dogs can achieve their Canine Good Citizen title or conquer a mini agility course at AKC’s My Dog Can Do That! Dog Games and AKC Trick Dog testing will also be available at this action-packed event.

To learn more about AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days and sign up to hold an event, please visit the AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days website  or contact communications@akc.org. Breed clubs, sponsors or vendors interested in participating in the Flagship RDO Day should contact NCRDODay@akc.org.