Through online and print publications and outreach efforts, the Public Education department prepares future dog owners for the responsibilities of dog ownership; teaches children how to properly care for, respect, and stay safe around dogs; and recruits people to the sport by introducing young and old to the advantages of purebred dogs and AKC events and services.

The department supports a nationwide network of more than 4,000 AKC-affiliated club volunteers who distribute public education materials and publicize public education programs and initiatives. These Public Education Coordinators and Canine Ambassadors make presentations to community groups and schools, and host events that promote responsible dog ownership.

Best Friends Teaching Kits and Safety Around Dogs kits, along with other AKC materials, were distributed to educators at the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development annual conference, and at the National Education Association Expo, events with a combined attendance of approximately 27,000. In addition, close to 2,500 packages of AKC materials were sent upon the request of Public Education Coordinators for distribution at shows and events nationwide.

The “Kids’ Corner” online newsletter featured stories on AKC events, remarkable purebred dogs, canine safety, and art and essay contests. “Kids’ Corner” receives 5,000 visitors a month.

Staff promoted AKC’s free online elementary- and middle-school lesson plans in the November/December issues of Instructor and Teaching K-8 magazines, reaching a readership of more than 1.2 million teachers and education professionals. The lesson plans serve as a proactive base to help teach about responsible dog ownership and safety around dogs.

The department publishes the bimonthly “Public Education Corner” and the AKC employee newsletter, “Scribbles & Bits.” Additionally, staff researched and wrote an article about “can-do” clubs (those that do outstanding work in public education) for the September AKC Gazette.

Eleven 2004 Community Achievement Awards were given to honor outstanding public education and canine legislation efforts. AKC donated $1,000 to each honoree’s club or federation.