Page 17 - Chow Life - Spring 2018

simply normal dogs of excellent the dog fancy a wake-up call: Our participating in programming that
heritage that happen to be of goal is to come together to do profiles dogs at work and play, with
exceptional quality. the right thing for all our dogs, families, doing therapy, and so on.
We must never lose sight of the while staying constantly alert to Take part in “dog walks” and other
many dedicated breeders over harmful legislation in the making. activities around town that can
the centuries who gave their all Responsible breeders must do all help showcase your breed and the
to perfect their breeds. We must within their power to represent the genuine goodness in purebred dogs
always be grateful to those giants purebred dog with accountability and their people.
of the past who provided us with and civility as well as good • Work to oppose state, county,
the foundation stock for our sportsmanship. Here are some and local anti-dog legislation.
quality dogs of today. We can best ways breeders can help our cause: • Try not to let the hate mongers
show our gratitude by marshalling • Be courteous and friendly to get your goat. Stay calm and
our forces to answer the hate spectators at dog shows who want rational and prepare yourself to
mongers by addressing the issues to talk about your breed. If it’s not a defend the purebred dog. Always
of health, temperament, longevity, good time to talk, explain why and conduct yourself in a way that
and quality, both personally and get their name, smile, and ask them would make your dogs proud!
publicly. We cannot sit back and let to come back later. Behave similarly
our opponents destroy us because in other public places when you are
we are not proactive. out with your dogs. Patricia Trotter was the 2003 AKC
So-called animal-rights activists • Take a litter of puppies and an Hound Group Breeder of the Year
are able to access legions of adult to an elementary school and and is approved to judge more than
volunteers and a large war give a presentation on purebred 80 breeds. She is a regular contributor
chest to promote their agenda. dogs and the breed. Make it known to the GAZETTE.
Unfortunately, their campaign falls locally that you wish to help educate
on the sympathetic ears of those about purebred dogs at all levels. This article first appeared in the mAY
who mistakenly think of them as • Promote an upcoming dog show 2009 issue of the AKC GAZETTE and is
do-gooders. The BBC has issued by seeking out local media and reprinted with permission.

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