In case anyone is interested:
From the AKC
RONALD H. MENAKER
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
DENNIS B. SPRUNG
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Ms. Oprah Winfrey April 4, 2008
The Oprah Winfrey Show
110 N. Carpenter Street
Chicago, IL 60607
Dear Ms. Winfrey:
Thank you for your informative show today. We are very pleased that a
renowned dog lover such as you has taken on the issue of unregulated dog
breeders - an issue we work towards addressing on a daily basis
The American Kennel Club has always been a strong proponent of
responsible breeding, which entails giving careful consideration to
health issues, temperament and genetic screening, as well as to the
individual care and placement of puppies in responsible homes. AKC
supports and promotes these and other responsible breeding practices
through numerous educational programs.
In addition to raising awareness, we have long invested significant
resources to directly address the issue of canine welfare. In 2007, our
team of 15 inspectors visited over 5,600 kennels throughout the country.
AKC spends over $6 million each year to inspect our customers, thereby
ensuring the integrity of our registry and the proper care and
conditions for dogs registered with us. In fact, of over 35 U.S.
registries we are the only one to conduct inspections,
as well as being the only not-for-profit all-breed registry in the
nation. AKC is continually raising the bar. When our inspectors find
kennels that do not meet our progressive standards, they educate those
breeders. Those not willing to come into compliance are suspended of
their AKC registration privileges and proper authorities are alerted in
cases of neglect.
Unfortunately, there are many breeders who choose NOT to register with
us specifically because of our high standards, and once they are no
longer being inspected by the AKC, there is often very little oversight
from state or federal entities. AKC supports scrupulous enforcement of
the federal Animal Welfare Act, and state and local regulations
governing the humane care of animals. We also voice support for more
resources to be allotted to the USDA and other enforcement agencies to
ensure that current regulations are met.
AKC's 5,000 affiliated clubs nationwide are comprised of people who
dedicate their lives - emotionally and financially - to improving their
breeds and to providing healthy, happy pets. We would like to work with
you to further educate the American public about how to identify a
responsible breeder and hope you will call on us when addressing this
topic in the future.
Again, thank you for raising awareness of this important issue. Your
support is invaluable to all dogs and their devoted owners.
Sincerely,
Ronald H. Menaker Dennis B. Sprung
Chairman of the Board President and CEO