First, let me say that I am 110 percent AGAINST selling puppies, or any animal in a parking lot. And, I agree that the photos displaying a “local licensed breeding facility” were deplorable.However, there are some facts and quotes listed by the author that need to be addressed.The American Kennel Club (AKC) does NOT “register mutts.” This is misinformation and can be verified by referring to the “AKC Policies and Guidelines for Registration Matters;” or the “AKC Rules for Record Keeping and Identification.” Their mission statement is quite clear: “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(r) 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.” While registration papers are NOT a guarantee of quality, the AKC is only a registry. They do offer educational material available to the public on health issues, how and where to purchase a dog, etc.They suggest that when disputes arise between a buyer and seller, that you contact your local authorities. AKC does revoke privileges from individuals that have been convicted of animal cruelty as well as improper record keeping. These finding are listed publicly in the AKC Gazette Publication.Additional information about the AKC can be found on their website at www.akc.org. The United Kennel Club (UKC) is another respected dog registry that also sponsors performance events for registered dogs. Additional information about the UKC can be found on their website at www.ukcdogs.com. The often misrepresented registries are, American Kennel Registry (AKR), American Pet Registry (APR), Continental Kennel Club (CKC). These registries are not affiliated with AKC at all.In regards to the generalizations about our PACFA, I feel the author really categorized breeders & state licensed facilities, specifically the “Calhan area” as “BAD.” I take offense with that generalization. My husband and I have lived and operated a state licensed training facility in Calhan for 151/2 years. We have been licensed since 1997 when the PACFA started. We have an “excellent” rating. We are inspected without “notice.” Our relationship with the Department of Agriculture is a good one.We also have helped out with various rescue situations, both fostering & placing and behavioral evaluations.Let’s be fair here. Not ALL RESCUES are the cream of the crop either. A lot of “rescuers” believe they are “above the law” because they are “saving” something. Some rescuers have a strong tendency towards “hoarding” rather than doing what is best for the animals. It is my understanding that the “rescues” are supposed to be licensed by the PACFA as well?Is not adopting or placing a deformed or sick animal just as serious an issue as selling one? What about temperament? The public deserves to be educated in regards to rescue too.We all like to be right. If the Falcon Herald wants to be fair, you need to present both sides . . . and check your facts.Editor’s note: All of the facts in the above-referenced article were identified by appropriate sources. The statement about the American Kennel Club registering “mutts” was part of a direct quote by Aubrey Eastman, assistant executive director of Dreampower Animal Rescue. This article was not about the AKC – the focus of the article was the backyard breeder.However, in light of Ms. Harris’s comment that Dreampower’s Ms. Eastman was incorrect in her quote about AKC registering mixed breeds, the NFH called the AKC for clarification.Lisa Peterson, spokeswoman for AKC, said that the AKC does not register mixed breeds. AKC registration is defined through specific breed classification for purebred dogs only. The AKC does offer a couple of programs for owners of mixed breeds. The Canine Good Citizen Test certifies responsible owners of mixed breeds, but it has nothing to do with breeding. The certificate is awarded to an owner after his or her dog passes the tests for various human and dog-friendly traits. The certificate is not associated with AKC registration. The AKC also provides a health insurance plan for all dogs.For more information on the AKC, visit www.akc.org.Jo Anne HarrisPresident, Rug-ged Retrievers Inc.
