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–Annual Events Educate Public on How to Be Effective Dog Owners–

The American Kennel Club® (AKC®) is preparing for the 19th 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.

“Since the inception of the AKC RDO Days initiative, AKC clubs and pet-related organizations have held countless events to educate current and potential dog owners about the responsibilities that come along with owning a canine companion,” said AKC President and CEO Dennis B. Sprung. “These events, big and small, are a great way for dog lovers to celebrate the unconditional human-canine bond, while learning about the obligations we have to our dogs in return. We are grateful to those who join us each year and we encourage organizations that have not yet held an event to give it a try in 2021.”

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 500 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 2021 include car decals and RDO wristbands.

AKC Flagship RDO Day: AKC will host the flagship Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 11th from 10am-2pm 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, tests and more. Canine Good Citizen and Trick Dog tests will also be available at this action-packed event.

AKC Pet Insurance returns this year as the presenting sponsor of AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days. AKC Pet Insurance is committed to responsible dog ownership and proudly works with the American Kennel Club to promote canine health and well-being. They highlight the importance of pet insurance and the many ways it helps keep our canine companions happy and healthy.

AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day is also sponsored in part by Motel 6, the first national pet friendly chain, welcoming pets since 1962.