AKC Board Minutes

February 2002

The Board convened Friday, February 8, 2002 at 10:45 a.m. after the meetings of the various Board Committees. All Directors were present as were the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Secretary.

The Board reviewed the January 2002 minutes. Upon motion made by Dr. Battaglia, and seconded by Mr. Goodman, the minutes of the January 2002 meeting, copies of which were made available to all Directors, were adopted (unanimously).

The Chairman, Mr. Merriam, extended the Board's appreciation to Dr. Robert Smith, who was attending his last Board meeting. Dr. Smith was presented with a gift from the Board as a token of gratitude for his many contributions over the years.

Mr. Merriam discussed correspondence referred to him as Board Chairman. It included a request from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which was attempting to raise funds for a canine war memorial and a letter from Thomas Murphy, AKC's former CFO, thanking the Board for a gift presented at the time of his retirement.

Mr. Merriam reviewed a proposal for the formation of an AKC Art Advisory Board, which Mr. Sprung had prepared at the direction of the Board. The Art Advisory Board would be charged with identifying areas where the collection is lacking in depth or breadth and with considering ways to enhance the collection through donations or purchases. The proposed members were: Karen Lefrak, Anne Radice, and Janet York. There was no objection to the establishment of this committee as a Board Chairman-appointed one, serving at the pleasure of the Chairman.

Mr. Merriam discussed the concept of a possible Pan American Canine Exhibition, which would be a show open to dogs from countries in the Western Hemisphere. This idea was to be explored further by staff.

The President, Mr. Cheauré, gave a personnel update concerning the search for a Chief Financial Officer and an Assistant Vice President of Communications. He also reported that Jack White has been hired as a conformation field representative, effective 2/25/02 and that he will work out of the Philadelphia area.

Mr. Cheauré explained that the breed standards are being made available on 8 ½ x 5 ½ paper, which fits in a small binder. The price is $3 per group, with all seven groups and the binder available at $29.95. This will replace the standards in the plastic sleeves.

Mr. Cheauré gave an AKC CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund update.

Mr. Cheauré gave a Pet Insurance update.

Mr. Cheauré gave a financial update. The Financial Report for January 2002 showed an excess of revenue over expenses 739,000.

The individual registration figures for January 2002 are 85,560, versus 99,208 for January 2001.

The litter registration figures for January 2002 are 39,663 versus 42,435 for January 2001.

Mr. Cheauré pointed out that there were two fewer workdays in January 2002 than in January 2001.

Mr. Marden gave the Pension Committee report. He indicated that the Board Pension Committee had replaced Buck Consultants with two other organizations. New York Life Benefit Services will provide actuarial services and investment management of the pension funds. Morgan Keegan & Co. will provide independent investment oversight of the New York Life Benefit investments..

It was reported that AKC CAR had contributed $100,000 towards the AKC Veterinary Scholarship program. Following a motion by Dr. Battaglia, seconded by Mr. Goodman, it was VOTED (unanimously) to add this to the $60,000 allocated in the 2002 Budget so that $160,000 in veterinary scholarships will be awarded in 2002.

The Executive Secretary, Mr. Crowley, reported on a $400,000 grant by the AKC Canine Health Foundation to study the health of the September 11 Search and Rescue dogs. The grants were awarded to the New York Animal Medical Center and to the University of Pennsylvania for this three-year study. AKC and AKC CAR have already awarded $40,000 each for the University of Pennsylvania study. Staff was directed to follow up with the AKC CHF to get more details and to find out what type of funding is still needed.

Mr. Crowley reported on a project being undertaken by Mrs. Hayes, the AKC Historian/Archivist, to update the AKC history, which was compiled through 1984 in the "Source Book." The updated history will be made available for research in the AKC library.

There was a discussion on whether handler classified advertising in the AKC GAZETTE should be limited to AKC registered handlers. Following a motion by Mr. Kelly, seconded by Mr. Gladstone, it was VOTED (affirmative, Dr. Mays, Mr. Kelly, Mr. Gladstone, Dr. Garvin, Dr. Smith, Mr. Goodman, Mr. Marden; opposed, Dr. Battaglia, Mr. Menaker, Mr. Merriam, Mrs. Strand, Ms. Scully, Dr. Davies) to limit handler advertising in the AKC GAZETTE to AKC registered handlers. This restriction will take effect upon the expiration of any existing advertising contracts between AKC and non-registered handlers.

The Board did discuss whether Board members should be able to get additional breeds while serving on the Board and whether staff, who had served as conformation field staff, should receive up to a group upon retirement. It was agreed that these subjects would be discussed at a future Board workshop or retreat.

Dr. Smith, Dr. Davies and Dr. Garvin, members of the Appeals Committee, left the meeting prior to the report on Judges Applications.

Mr. Gladstone participated in the discussion, but left the meeting prior to the vote on Judges Applications.

Mr. Hayes, staff, was present for the discussion on Judges Applications. Upon motion made and seconded, it was VOTED:

That the applications for the following New Breed judging applicants be accepted for the breeds indicated:

Mrs. Gretchen Bernardi - Dachshunds, Irish Wolfhounds

Ms. Nancy Christensen - Bulldogs

Ms. Christine Erickson - Smooth Fox Terriers, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, Welsh Terriers

Mrs. R. Doreen Gordin - Poodles, JS

Mr. Bernhard L. (Ben) Helfrich - Giant Schnauzers, Brussels Griffons

Mrs. Minna-Liisa Koltes - German Shepherd Dogs, JS

Ms. Debbie Petersen - Irish Water Spaniels, Afghan Hounds, Whippets

Daniel G. Sena, DDS - English Springer Spaniels

That the applications for the following Approved Breed judging applicants be accepted for the breeds indicated:

Mrs. Nancy-Lee H. Coombs - Newfoundlands

Mrs. Jeraldeen R. Crandall - Bernese Mountain Dogs, Boxers, Bullmastiffs, Great Pyrenees, Mastiffs, Portuguese Water Dogs, St. Bernards, Standard Schnauzers

Dr. Kenneth A. Doeg - Balance of Working Group
(Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, Giant Schnauzers, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, Komondorok, Kuvaszok, Mastiffs, Portuguese Water Dogs, Samoyeds, Standard Schnauzers)

Mr. David Allen Feller - Pointers, Golden Retrievers, English Setters

Dr. Jon Ferrante - Chihuahuas, Poodles

Mrs. Edna Kay "Katie" Gammill - Balance of Working Group
(Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, Boxers, Bullmastiffs, Great Pyrenees, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, Komondorok, Kuvaszok, Mastiffs), Afghan Hounds

Mrs. Ann Schilling Gray - Australian Shepherds, Cardigan Welsh Corgis

Mrs. Peggy Helming - Portuguese Water Dogs

Mr. Nathaniel Horn - Australian Shepherds, Bearded Collies, Bouviers des Flandres, Briards, Old English Sheepdogs, Pulik, Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Dr. Steve Keating - German Wirehaired Pointers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Curly-Coated Retrievers, Flat-Coated Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Vizslas, Weimaraners

Mr. Laurence J. Libeu - Brittanys, Pointers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Curly-Coated Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, American Water Spaniels, Clumber Spaniels, Irish Water Spaniels

Miss Kimberly Anne Meredith - Brittanys, Pointers, German Shorthaired Pointers, German Wirehaired Pointers, Clumber Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, Vizslas, Weimaraners

Mrs. Mary Ellen Meyer - Poodles

Mrs. Janet Turnage Nahikian - Australian Shepherds, Belgian Tervuren, Border Collies, German Shepherd Dogs

Mr. Ronald D. Pemberton - Afghan Hounds, Borzois, Greyhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Otterhounds, Salukis, Scottish Deerhounds, Whippets

Mrs. Dana B. Read - Tibetan Terriers

Mr. Del Richards - Australian Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdogs, Belgian Tervuren, Briards, Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Mrs. Lenora M. Riddle - French Bulldogs

Mr. Don Sutton - Bichons Frises, Bulldogs, Chinese Shar-Pei, Chow Chows, French Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, Tibetan Spaniels, Tibetan Terriers

Mrs. Sally L. Vilas - Bichons Frises, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, Tibetan Spaniels, Tibetan Terriers

Mr. Frank J. Washabaugh - American Staffordshire Terriers, Australian Terriers, Border Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, Kerry Blue Terriers, Norfolk Terriers, Norwich Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Skye Terriers, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, Welsh Terriers

Mrs. Barbara Young-Smith - Pointers, English Setters, Gordon Setters, Irish Setters, English Springer Spaniels, Irish Water Spaniels, Vizslas, Alaskan Malamutes

Ms. Sharon M. Zaker - Whippets

That the following Alternative Breed applicant be approved:

Mrs. Paula Hartinger - Balance of Sporting Group
(Brittanys, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Curly-Coated Retrievers, Flat-Coated Retrievers, American Water Spaniels, Clumber Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, English Cocker Spaniels, Field Spaniels, Irish Water Spaniels, Sussex Spaniels, Welsh Springer Spaniels, Spinoni Italiani, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons)

That the following named persons, who have completed five group assignments in the first Variety Group, be approved to judge Best in Show:

Dr. Ruby Hertz (Oakland, CA)
Mr. Richard V. Miller (La Harpe, IL)

That the following Provisional Junior Showmanship applications be approved:

Ms. Susan Anne Bosshart (Coon Rapids, MN)
Miss Casandra Clark (Tustin, CA)
Miss Megan Mybeck (Scottsdale, AZ)
Mr. J.R. Pelatzky (Chester Springs, PA)

That the following Provisional Tracking application be approved:

Mr. Edward Presnall - Tracking Dog

Upon motion made and seconded, it was VOTED that the following Visiting Judges be approved for assignments at shows as indicated:

Ms. Sheila Critchley (England) - Bucks County Kennel Club - 5/4/02

Mr. Gary Edward Doyle (New Zealand) - Butler County KC - 5/25/02; Trumbull County KC,
5/26/02; Bushy Run KC, 5/24/02; New Castle KC, 5/27/02

Mrs. Elizabeth Jean Doyle (New Zealand) - Golden Triangle Irish Setter Club - 5/24/02;
Trumbull County KC, 5/26/02

Mrs. Helen Elmer (Australia) - Afghan Hound Club of Greater Columbus - 4/20/02

Mr. Thomas Fleming (Scotland) - Ladies Dog Club - 6/1/02

Mr. Patrick Jacoulot (France) - Briard Club of America - 5/18/02
Following completion of the report on Judges Applications, Dr. Smith, Dr. Davies, Dr. Garvin and Mr. Gladstone returned to the meeting.

Dr. Smith gave the report for the Appeals Committee. Upon motion made and seconded, it was VOTED to approve the following breeds:

Mrs. Sue Weiss - Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, Keeshonden

Mr. Slay, staff, participated in the portion of the meeting dealing with disciplinary actions.

There was a report on the actions taken by the AKC staff during the month of January 2002 on the cancellation of litters and individual registrations.

During the month of January, the registrations of 14 litters were cancelled: 7 because of impure breeding and 7 as a result of the Compliance Audit Program - DNA.

The cancellation of the 14 litters resulted in the cancellation of 21 registered dogs and rendered 43 dogs, members of these litters, ineligible for registration.

The Board considered a proposal from the Board of Directors of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America for a pilot study that would make AKC DNA certification mandatory for the sire and dam of all Bernese Mountain Dog litters prior to registration. The matter had previously been referred to staff to study and to report back to the Board. Staff was not in favor of the proposal, as it was contrary to the principle of uniform registration rules and regulations for all breeds. Potential options available to the club to encourage the use of DNA include: requiring AKC DNA certification for entry in BCA specialties; recommending AKC DNA certification for breeding stock in the Parent Club Code of Ethics; an optional DNA collection program at the National Specialty, where AKC would offer a discounted fee; AKC DNA certification indicated in show catalogs; the publication of an annual list of club members that do obtain AKC DNA profiles for their dogs. Following a motion by Dr. Battaglia, seconded by Mr. Marden, it was VOTED (affirmative, Dr. Battaglia, Mr. Marden, Mr. Kelly, Mr. Merriam, Mrs. Strand, Ms. Scully, Mr. Goodman, Dr. Davies, Mr. Menaker, Dr. Mays, Dr. Smith; opposed, Mr. Gladstone, Dr. Garvin) to advise the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America that the Board did not approve the request at this time and to advise the club of the above options it does have to encourage the use of DNA.

The following actions taken by the AKC Management Disciplinary Committee were reported:

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Chuck Winslow (San Francisco, CA) from all AKC event privileges (which includes judging) for a period of one (1) year, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $500 fine for inappropriate conduct as an AKC Judge. (Brussels Griffon and Pointer)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended the following individuals from all AKC privileges for a period of ten years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed fines of $2000 each for failure to comply with the recordkeeping and identification requirements of Chapter 4 of the Rules Applying to Registration and Discipline. Further, reinstatement will be contingent upon their beginning with a new colony:

Mary Berry (Lebanon, MO) - Multiple Breeds
Polly Butler (Navarre, FL) - Chihuahua and Pomeranian
Barbara Lindsey (Mansfield, MO) - Multiple Breeds
Betty Mason (Harrisonburg, LA) - Multiple Breeds
Jesse J. Stewart (Wetumpka, AL) - Poodle
Karen York (Richland, MO) - Dachshund

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended the following individuals from all AKC privileges for a period of two years, effective February 8, 2002 and imposed a $2000 fine each for having refused to permit an inspection of records and practices, as provided by Chapter 4, Section 7 of the Rules Applying to Registration and Discipline:

Debbra Alabaugh (Tiffin, OH) - Multiple Breeds
Margie Anderson (Tahlequah, OK) - Multiple Breeds
Ann Anthony (Wisc Dells, WI) - Poodle and Siberian Husky
Sharon Hook (Atoka, OK) - Multiple Breeds
Chris Kimmell (Tallmadge, OH) - Bulldog
Glenda Ledbetter (Lebanon, MO) - Multiple Breeds
William Ledbetter (Lebanon, MO) - Multiple Breeds
Felicita Negron-Morales (Camuy, PR) - Shih Tzu

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended the following individuals from all AKC privileges for a period of ten years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for conduct considered prejudicial to the best interests of purebred dogs in connection with the conviction as indicated:

John Delaurentis (Cherry Hill, NJ) - based on his conviction in Municiple Court, Township of Cherry Hill, New Jersey of Animal Cruelty. (Mixed Breed)

Karina Pubchara-Martinez (Miami, FL) - based on her signing a Basset Hound over to the Palm Beach County, Florida Division of Animal Care and Control in lieu of prosecution. (Multiple Breeds)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Jeffrey Duffer (Fountain Run, KY) from all AKC privileges for a period of ten (10) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for failure to comply with the rules and regulations for recordkeeping and identification, having submitted, or caused to be submitted, two litter registration applications which he knew, should have known, or had a duty to know, contained false certifications and failure to maintain his dogs and records in a manner acceptable to The American Kennel Club. (Pekingese)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Betty Foster (Harrah, OK) from all AKC privileges for a period of one (1) year, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $1000 fine for failure to maintain her dogs and facilities in a manner acceptable to The American Kennel Club. (Multiple Breeds)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Donna Freeman (Fountain Run, KY) from all AKC privileges for a period of ten (10) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for failure to comply with the rules and regulations for recordkeeping and identification, having submitted, or caused to be submitted two litter registration applications which she knew, should have known, or had a duty to know, contained false certifications and failure to maintain her dogs and records in a manner acceptable to The American Kennel Club. (Pekingese)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Robert Freeman (Fountain Run, KY) from all AKC privileges for a period of ten (10) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for failure to comply with the rules and regulations for recordkeeping and identification, having submitted, or caused to be submitted, two litter registration applications which he knew, should have known, or had a duty to know, contained false certifications and failure to maintain his dogs and records in a manner acceptable to The American Kennel Club. (Pekingese)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Carla Green (New Virginia, IA) from all AKC privileges for a period of ten (10) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for failure to comply with the rules and regulations for recordkeeping and identification and failure to maintain her dogs and facilities in a manner acceptable to The American Kennel Club. (Multiple Breeds)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Evan Linkous (Wytheville, VA) from all AKC privileges for a period of ten (10) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for failure to comply with the rules and regulations for recordkeeping and identification and for assisting a suspended individual circumvent the terms of her suspension. (Multiple Breeds)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Lauren Ogburn (Jacksonville, FL) from all AKC event privileges for a period of two (2) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for having entered, or caused to be entered, a female English Cocker Spaniel which she knew, or should have known, had a permanent alteration. (English Cocker Spaniel)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Patricia Steele (Jacksonville, FL) from all AKC registration privileges for a period of three (3) months, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $500 fine for having signed AKC documents on behalf of another without having a properly completed Power of Attorney form on file. (Multiple Breeds)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Donald Thompson (New Virginia, IA) from all AKC privileges for a period of ten (10) years, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $2000 fine for failure to comply with the rules and regulations for recordkeeping and identification and failure to maintain his dogs and facilities in a manner acceptable to The American Kennel Club. (Multiple Breeds)

The AKC's Management Disciplinary Committee has suspended Wanda Sue Whitt (Chapmanville, WV) from all AKC registration privileges for a period of one (1) year, effective February 8, 2002, and imposed a $1000 fine for having submitted, or caused to be submitted, a false complaint to The American Kennel Club in regard to the signature in Section A of the litter registration application. (Multiple Breeds)

Mr. Goodman gave the Events and Clubs Committee Report on fines assessed clubs for late submission of date applications and judges panels.

It was moved by Mr. Goodman, seconded by Dr. Battaglia and VOTED (unanimously) to approve the Delegate credentials of the following persons, whose credentials have been published in two consecutive issues of the GAZETTE:

Karen Arends, Richmond, TX to represent to represent Portuguese Water Dog Club of America, Inc.

Sheila A. Brown, Billings, MT to represent Finnish Spitz Club of America, Inc.

Richard L. Byrd, Shelton, MA to represent Gig Harbor Kennel Club, Inc.

Anne Kemp Douglas, Lexington, KY to represent Lexington Kennel Club, Inc.

Dan J. Harrison, Rockville, IN to represent Terre Haute Kennel Club, Inc.

William F. Hossler, Pittsford, NY to represent Tonawanda Valley Kennel Club, Inc.

Cheryl A. Kratz, Huntington Station, NY to represent Suffolk County Kennel Club, Inc.

Gregory A. Rishe, Greenport, NY to represent Riverhead Kennel Club, Inc.

Dr. Brian J. Shack, Nesconset, NY to represent Affenpinscher Club of America

Herman H. Tietjen, Rhinebeck, NY to represent McKinley Kennel Club

Mr. Goodman reported that the Delegate credentials of the following persons are to be published in the March and April 2002 issues of the GAZETTE:

Sylvia Arrowwood, Moncks Corner, SC to represent Charleston Kennel Club

Judith A. Ellis, Aurora, OH to represent All-Breed Training Club of Akron, Inc.

Florence R. Laicher, Carmel, NY to represent Putnam Kennel Club, Inc.

Thaddeus Makowski, Boulder, CO to represent Colorado Kennel Club, Inc.

Cecil Mann, Newburgh, NY to represent Wallkill Kennel Club, Inc.

Dianne Ring, Delaplane, VA to represent Middleburg Kennel Club

The Board considered a proposed revision to the Toy Fox Terrier breed standard to add the following clarification after the description of tri-color and white, chocolate and tan:

Body spots on black headed tri-colors must be black; body spots on chocolate headed tri-colors must be chocolate; both with or without a slight fringe of tan alongside any body spots near the chest and under the tail as seen in normal bi-coloring pattern.

Following a motion by Mr. Goodman, seconded by Ms. Scully, it was VOTED (affirmative, Mr. Goodman, Ms. Scully, Mr. Menaker, Mr. Gladstone, Dr. Davies, Mrs. Strand, Mr. Merriam, Dr. Smith, Dr. Battaglia, Dr. Mays, Mr. Marden, Mr. Kelly; opposed, Dr. Garvin) to approve the change.

The Board considered the approval of the qualifications for the 2002 Vizsla Club of America Gun Dog Championship as follows:

NATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
1. Qualification for entry into the Gun Dog Championship will be placements in any gun dog stake (amateur or open) or a Master Hunter title.

2. The Vizsla Club of America Breed Standard Qualification will apply. A Vizsla is ineligible to compete in any Vizsla Club of America field event if determined to have a disqualifying fault as stated in the breed standard recognized by The American Kennel Club. The determination is made by licensed AKC judge approved by the VCA Board.

Following a motion by Ms. Scully, seconded by Mr. Menaker, it was VOTED (unanimously) to approve these qualifications, effective May 1, 2002.

The Board considered a number of amendments to the Herding Regulations that were approved by at least 75% of the Herding Advisory Committee. Following a motion by Mrs. Strand, seconded by Ms. Scully, it was VOTED (unanimously) to amend the regulations, effective September 1, 2002, so that the applicable sections would read as follows:

Chapter 1. General Regulations
Revised
Section 1. Purpose, paragraph 1:
"A dog is not required to work in any particular style. A dog may compete on whichever course its handler chooses."

Section 3. Eligibility of Dogs, paragraph 8:
"When foxtails, cactus, sticktights, etc. would cause injury to a dog working in the field, a Judge may permit the dog to wear protective footwear. The Judge must inspect the dog's feet immediately prior to the run, to confirm that the footwear is not covering an injury. Any field which is used under these conditions, will be subject to review prior to approval for additional herding events."

Section 10 Ribbons & Rosettes
(B) Trials paragraph 4:
"The same dog may not be awarded High in Trial and Reserve High in Trial at any single herding event. Trophies may be awarded to any or all placements and to dogs receiving qualifying scores at herding trials. Cash prizes may be offered at any herding trial provided the exact amount(s) and conditions(s) of such prize(s) is stated in the Premium List."

Chapter 1 General Regulations cont.
Revised:
Section 23 Exercise of Judgment, Committees & Judges, Paragraph 2
"The placement of the obstacles and course times may be changed as needed, and other necessary modifications made, provided the test and trial courses contain the minimum essential elements required by these Regulations. Each dog at a test or trial must be judged equally and fairly under conditions that are, as nearly as possible, consistent for every participating dog."

Chapter 2. Herding Tests & Trials Defined:
Revised:
Section 4 Number of Dogs That Can Be Judged, Paragraph 1
"The maximum number of dogs that may be judged by a Judge in one day is 50. One hour for rest or meals (not including intervals when livestock is rotated) must be allowed during the day."

Chapter 3. Herding Tests
Revised:
Section 9 Pre-Trial Test, Description and Test Elements, Paragraph 11
"The dog must be under control and move the stock under control, either on or off the fence, throughout the course. The dog will move the stock through the first gate at the side of the arena, across the narrow end of the arena through the second gate. Direction is reversed at approximately the midpoint of the long side of the arena. The stock moves back through the second gate, across the narrow end, through the first gate and to the pen. While the handler opens the gate the dog will sit, stand or down/stay until commanded to pen the stock. Four gate passes are required and at some point on the course that handler must demonstrate that the dog can hold a stop (controlled pause). The test is completed when the gate is closed and the handler may leash the dog as soon as the gate is closed. Once a dog has attempted or completed all test elements, regardless of whether it qualifies, it must leave the arena."

Chapter 4. Herding Trials
Revised:
Section 4 Herding Champion, paragraph 4:
"One Championship point is earned when an Advanced dog goes High-in-Trial and there was only one dog in Advanced classes, two points are earned when there were two dogs in the Advanced Classes.

Following a motion by Dr. Battaglia, seconded by Ms. Scully, it was VOTED (unanimously) to approve certain changes recommended by the Herding Advisory Committee as additions to the Regulations rather than as revisions. The applicable sections will read as follows, effective September 1, 2002:

Chapter 3. Herding Tests
Revised:
Section 4 Qualification, Paragraph 3
"In tests, dogs must demonstrate the ability to move and control livestock by fetching or driving, and be sufficiently trained to work at the proper balance point to move the stock forward on the course. Dogs that constantly prevent the stock from being moved in a controlled fashion, or that chase or harass the stock, will not qualify."

Chapter 6. Course B
Revised:
Section 3, Intermediate Class Course B Description
"Time Allowed: 10 Minutes. When cattle are used on Course B one minute should be added to the course time for every additional 30 feet of outrun distance over the minimum.

Outrun: Minimum length -

300 feet sheep & cattle
75 feet ducks

Maximum length-
600 feet sheep and cattle
150 feet ducks

The handler will remain at the handler's post until the stock clears Gate #1. The handler may then leave the handler's post and walk to any appropriate position to meet the dog and stock and will fetch and/or drive the stock to and through Gate #2 and to the pen. The exercises are:

1) Outrun
2) Lift
3) Fetch
4) Turn around the handler's post
5) Drive through Gate #1
6) Pen
7) Hold"

Chapter 7. Course C cont.
Revised:
Section 4 Suggested Scoring
A. Exit from the pen #4:
4. "Up to 2 points deducted for stock hitting, banging or crowding the gate."

Following a motion by Mr. Marden, seconded by Ms. Scully, it was VOTED (unanimously), based upon staff recommendations, to disapprove a number of amendments to the Herding Regulations proposed by the Herding Advisory Committee. The amendments would have amended the Regulations as follows:

Chapter 1. General Regulations
Revised:
Section 12 Premium Lists
(B) Tests, paragraph 1:
"A club has the option of offering any one type of Pre-Trial course. The following information shall be included in the premium list for a licensed or member herding trial: name of club or association offering the trial; the exact location (with map and /or directions to the site) and date of the trial; field dimensions; name and address of the Herding Trial Committee Chairperson; the names of the Herding Trial Committee members (minimum of five including the Chairperson); time the grounds will be available; entry fees; trials offered; names and addresses of the Judges together with their assignments; name, address and telephone number of the Trial Secretary; date, time and location of closing and drawing of entries; a listing of club officers with addresses and the official AKC entry form. Premium list shall also specify the type (and breed, if possible) and number of livestock to be used for each trial; include the name, addresses and telephone number of the veterinarian(s) on duty or on call during the trial; and specify whether ribbons or rosettes will be offered."

Chapter 1. General Regulations cont.:
Revised:
Section 12 Premium Lists cont.
(C) Trials, paragraph 1:
"The following information shall be included in the premium list for a licensed or member herding trial: name of club or association offering the trial; the exact location (with map and /or directions to the site) and date of the trial; field dimensions; name and address of the Herding Trial Committee Chairperson; the names of the Herding Trial Committee members (minimum of five including the Chairperson); time the grounds will be available; entry fees; classes offered and types of courses in each class; Note: (if Course B is offered, the outrun sizes must be stated) offered; names and addresses of the Judges together with their assignments; name, address and telephone number of the Trial Secretary; date, time and location of closing and drawing of entries; a listing of club officers with addresses and the official AKC entry form. Premium list shall also specify the type (and breed, if possible) and number of livestock to be used for each trial; include the name, addresses and telephone number of the veterinarian(s) on duty or on call during the trial; and specify whether ribbons or rosettes will be awarded; briefly describe any trophies that may be awarded and specify the placements to which they will be awarded."

Chapter 1. General Regulations cont.
Current :
Section 13 Closing of Entries:
New Paragraph 2 & 3:
"Opening of entries: Entries for a licensed or Member Club herding test or trial shall open not more than 6 weeks and not less than 4 weeks prior to the closing date. The Premium List may be mailed at any time but not less than 7 days prior to the Opening date.
The date that entries will be opened, prior to which entries will not be accepted, shall be published in the Gazette and website Events Calendar for the benefit of those who make entries without a premium list.
If entries are to be limited, the numerical limitation (s) must be stated in the premium list and entries will close when the numerical limit or limits have been reached."

Chapter 1. General Regulations cont.
Revised:
Section 22 Absences, Retirements, Removals, Excusals, Disqualification's and Re-evaluations. Paragraph 5
"A dog that grips abusively without purpose will immediately be removed. Gripping or nipping is not acceptable if it is done without purpose. Acceptable gripping must be appropriate to the stock. It must be remembered that another dog may be able to control the same stock without gripping."

Section 22 Absences, Retirements, Removals, Excusals, Disqualification's and Re-evaluations Paragraph 12
"Dogs that are absent or disqualified by a Judge at a trial shall not be considered as having been in competition when determining championship points."

Chapter 2. Herding Tests & Trials Defined:
Revised:
Section 1 Judges, Paragraph 4
"No Judge shall require any dog or handler to do anything, nor penalize a dog or handler for failing to do anything, that is not required by these Regulations. No handler shall be penalized for using a combination of verbal or whistle commands and 'body English'."

Section 9. Equipment, Paragraph 2
"Handlers and Judges may carry a staff or a crook which shall be unsplintered wood, fiberglass, aluminum or composite stock stick which is not longer than approximately five and one-half (5 ½) feet. PVC plastic pipe is not permissible in the arena. The staff or crook is intended as an aid in controlling livestock and not as a training device and shall never be used to touch a dog, except in an extreme situation involving the safety of a person or the livestock."

Chapter 2. Herding Tests & Trials Defined:
Revised:
Section 10. Scoring & Move-ups, Paragraph 1
"The scoring of the dog's behavior begins when the dog enters the arena. Timing of the run begins at the Judge's order or signal for the dog to leave the handler. The only proof of a dog's record of performance will be the true copy of the scoresheet for each run."

Section 11 Livestock, Paragraph 3
"Judges may use a trained backup dog in settling or controlling the stock. Backup dogs must be held quietly outside the arena, except as provided herein or for demonstration purposes. If deemed necessary by the Judge, the backup dog may remain in the arena to hold the stock in position until the entered dog lifts the stock and begins to fetch."

Chapter 3. Eligibility of Dogs
New Section 7 Pre-Trial Tested (PT) Title, Paragraph 3
"A dog may enter a Pre-Trial Test more than once in a single event (provided that the Pre-Trial Test is run in more than one division) and earn a PT title provided it qualifies under two different Judges at that event."

Revised:
Section 9, Pre-Trial Test, Description and Test Elements Paragraph 2:
"The entry form must be marked "Boundary" if the club offers the PT Boundary course and the handler wishes the dog be tested in a boundary situation."
Chapter 3. Eligibility of Dogs cont.
Revised:
Section 9 Paragraph 3
"The course may be executed by fetching, driving, or a combination thereof. The handler may choose to work the dog on the fence or in the open while executing the course. A handler may not excessively touch or correct the dog once the stock begins executing the course. The dog must respond in a reasonably prompt manner without threatening actions or movements by the handler."

Chapter 4. Herding Trials
Revised
Section 3 Herding Trial Titles, Paragraphs 2, 3 & 4:
"The American Kennel Club will issue a Herding Started certificate designating the specific course and livestock type for an eligible dog, and will identify the titlist by the use of HS (course and livestock) after the name of that dog in all official AKC records, once the dog has been certified by two different Judges to have received qualifying scores in the Started classes, same course and livestock type, at three licensed or member club herding trials or division of herding trials.

The American Kennel Club will issue a Herding Intermediate certificate designating the specific course and livestock type for an eligible dog, and will identify the titlist by use of HI (course and livestock) after the name of that dog in all official AKC records, once the dog has been certified by two different Judges to have received qualifying scores in the Intermediate classes, same course and livestock type, at three licensed or member club herding trials or division of herding trials.

Chapter 4. Herding Trials cont.
Revised:
Section 3 Herding Trial Titles Paragraphs 2, 3 & 4:cont.
The American Kennel Club will issue a Herding Excellent certificate designating the specific course and livestock type for an eligible dog, and will identify the titlist by use of HX (course and livestock) after the name of that dog in all official AKC records, once the dog has been certified by two different judges to have received qualifying scores in the Advanced classes, same course and livestock type, at three licensed or member club herding trials or divisions of herding trials."

Chapter 4. Herding Trials cont.
Revised:
Section 4. Herding Champion:
The American Kennel Club will issue a Herding Champion certificate for an eligible dog that has acquired a HX (course and stock) title and earned 15 championship points with at least two first placements carrying points in Advanced classes at licensed or member trials under the applicable published point schedule. One of the first placements must be for three points or better and both first placements must be acquired under different judges. Herding Championship points will only be awarded for qualifying work in the Advanced class (course and stock) for which the HX title has been awarded. Championship points cannot be accrued at the trial in which the dog acquires the HX title on that course and stock.
The titlist will be identified by the use of the letters HCH before the name of that dog in all official AKC records. Herding Champion titles will be designated by Course and Stock when all Championship points are earned on the same course and stock type. When a course and stock specific Herding Champion title is earned, the HX title for that course and stock shall be removed as a suffix.

Chapter 4. Herding Trials cont.
Revised:
Section 4. Herding Champion cont.
(Note: For HX titles earned before January 1, 2000, championship points will be issued for qualifying work in the Advanced class.)
A dog may continue to acquire additional HX titles and in turn additional Herding Championship points, majors and titles on each course/livestock. The American Kennel Club will issue certificates for each course/livestock specific Herding Championship earned as the individual requirements for each Championship are fulfilled.
The number of points awarded will be determined by the total number of dogs defeated in each advanced class and division offered, including dogs with the HX and Herding Champion titles. Dogs will be awarded Championship points separately for each advanced class and division offered at any licensed or member event.

Chapter 4. Herding Trials cont.
Revised:
Section 4. Herding Champion cont.
The scores from each Advanced class and division are sorted in order of scores. A dog that qualifies in more than one advanced class or division is credited and listed in each class and division. Advanced dogs will be awarded Championship points up to a total of five points in each advanced class and/or division at any one event, subject to all of the foregoing conditions.
One Championship point is earned when an advanced dog wins first place in the class or division and there were only two dogs in the Advanced class.

Upon receiving any Herding Champion title, a dog may continue to compete in all Advance classes or divisions.

Chapter 4. Herding Trials cont.
Revised:
Section 4. Herding Champion cont.
(following the Schedule of Championship Points) add new Paragraphs 7-8 :
A dog that completed the requirements to attain the HX title on 3 different combinations of Courses and Stock types and has attained the title of Herding Champion shall be designated as a Master Herding Champion. (MHCH)

A dog that completes the requirements to become a Herding Champion on 3 different combinations of Courses and Stock types shall be designated as a Master Herding Champion Excellent. (MHCX)"

Chapter 4. Herding Trials cont.
Revised:
Section 8. General Course Requirements:
"A dog shall not be given a rerun if the stock completes the course without guidance from the dog.
The timer shall signal a two-minute warning and shall also signal the end of time for the run.
The handler is permitted to lightly touch or pet the dog on the head prior to the start, and after the completion of the run.
If trial entries exceed 80 runs, then at the discretion of the judges and trial committee, the Judge may call all runs at the point of non-qualifying. If this is to be done, it must be stated clearly in the Premium List."

Chapter 5. Course A
Revised:
Section 2 Course Layout:
OBSTACLES
Hold/Exam Pen (or Panel Runway for Started) - A 12 foot long (4 to 6 feet for ducks) panel (s) is placed parallel to the fence line to form a panel runway for Started. For Intermediate and Advanced, a second 12-foot long (4 to 6 feet long for ducks) panel (s) is attached toward the top of the arena to the fence and the freestanding panel. Together, with the fence, the two panels form a three-sided pen open toward the bottom of the arena. The height of the panels shall be approximately a minimum of 24 inches for ducks, 42 inches for sheep, and 54 inches for cattle. The back panel of the Hold/Exam Pen for cattle will have an under-clearance of 12 inches to 15 inches to allow ready escape for the dog.

Chapter 5. Course A cont.
Revised:
Section 3 Classes:
Course diagram pg. 39: Lift Area
Stock should be positioned 30 feet for sheep and cattle, 20 feet for ducks, plus 5 feet for every 20 feet of additional arena length over the minimum size, from the top and 12 feet for sheep and cattle, 6 feet for ducks, toward the far side of the arena from the centerline.

Chapter 6. Course B
Revised:
Section 2 Description of Exercises Shed (Advanced)
"Shed (Advanced)-The shed begins as the dog takes the stock from the pen to the shedding ring. Two head of livestock (when five head are used or one when three head are used) should be separated from the flock and held by the dog until the Judge states to the handler "That's a shed." The club may choose to have a 'Duck Touch' in place of a shed on ducks only and if so shall indicate this fact in the Premium List. Time ends and the run is completed."

Section 3 Classes
Started Class Course B - Description
Time Allowed: 10 Minutes. When cattle are used on Course B one minute should be added to the course time for every additional 30 feet of outrun distance over the minimum.

Chapter 6. Course B cont.
Revised:
Section 4 Judging Course B
Suggested Scoring
F. Shed (Advanced)
1. Up to 1 point deducted for the handler creating a gap and dog not coming through when asked.
2. Up to 3 points deducted for shed being "accomplished" by the handler.
3. Up to 2 points deducted for the dog coming onto the wrong group of stock after a split has been made.
4. Up to 1/2 point deducted for a missed opportunity.
5. Up to 1 1/2 points deducted for no hold after the shed.
6. Up to 1/2 point deducted for each head of sheep leaving the ring during the shed.

Chapter 7. Course C
Revised:
Section 1. Course C. Paragraph 2 First Sentence
Sheep, cattle, or geese may be used on Course C.

Section 1. Paragraph 3
The site of the course should be similar to a farm or pasture area to allow the execution of all the exercises and obstacles. It should take advantage of as many natural features as possible. The order of the exercises and obstacles may be changed as necessary to accommodate the site, provided all are included in appropriate relation to each other. The wide or narrow gazes should be located at least 50 yards from the pen; if set any closer, the wide or narrow gaze may not be the first exercise following the exit from the pen.

Chapter 7. Course C cont.
Revised:
Section 2. Course Layout
Freestanding Pen, Paragraph 2
The pen fence is of an inflexible, substantial material which is sufficiently high to hold the stock, prevent their escape and permit clear visibility for the sheep and dog. The size is 32 feet x 32 feet up to 60 feet x 60 feet depending on the number of head of stock used. The gate is located on one corner of the pen and must open easily. It may swing or be a panel that lifts out.

Section 2 Course Layout
Narrow Road Paragraph 1
Scoring encompasses all work between the exit of an exercise and the 20-foot beginning marker for the next exercise. This shall include the front or rear of the flock if needed, and the dog may change sides if there is equal distraction or danger on both sides. The narrow road connects all phases of the course and should be no less than ¾ of the length of the course. It can be a natural lane, a mowed path or marked by plowed furrows. It should be about 12 to 15 feet wide and have a proportion (1/3 in Started, ½ in Intermediate and 2/3 in Advanced) out in the open, at least 10 feet away from any fence line, in order to show the dog's ability to work both sides.

Chapter 7. Course C cont.
Revised:
Section 2. Course Layout
Wide Graze Paragraph 1 Sentence 7
Any single graze area may be used five times or as often as deemed appropriate based on the amount of grass or feed available in each graze as determined by the Club and/or Judge. Each area will be numbered. The size of the wide graze shall depend on the number of sheep being used, while it should be at the low end of the requirement when the minimum number of sheep (20) are used, and at the high end of the requirement when the greater number, (100 or more sheep), are used.

Section 2. Course Layout
Wide Graze Paragraph 4, First Sentence
The dog will patrol or move as needed to keep the flock within the assigned area. The sheep should not be disturbed while grazing nor permitted to stray over the boundary of the assigned area.

Chapter 7. Course C cont.
Revised:
Section 2 Placement Before the Flock (Intermediate and Advanced only) Paragraph 1; add new sentence:
"The handler will decide when this exercise will be performed and will so notify the Judge. The exercise will be performed and will so notify the Judge. The exercise demonstrates the dog's ability to be placed outside and inside the graze and to change the direction of the grazing sheep. A 2-minute warning will be given to the handler if a placement in the wide graze has not yet been attempted and is running out."

Chapter 7. Course C cont.
Revised:
Section 4 Suggested Scoring
E. Wide & Narrow Grazes, new #1:
1. "Up to 3 points each instance for the dog allowing the stock to exit the graze."

The Board considered amendments to Chapter 14, italicized paragraphs 5 and 10 of the Pointing Breed Field Trial Rules, submitted by the Weimaraner Club of America. They appear in italics in the Rules and concern the Field Championship and Amateur Field Championship requirements for Weimaraners. Following a motion by Mr. Menaker, seconded by Mr. Goodman, it was VOTED (unanimously) to adopt the amendments, effective June 1, 2002, as follows:

Revised Chapter 14 paragraph 5 & 10:
5"AND EXCEPT THAT a German Wirehaired Pointer, or Weimaraner, shall not be recorded a Field Champion unless it has also been certified by two of the approved judges to have passed a Water Test at a licensed or member field trial or hunting test held by a Specialty Club for one of these two breeds. In the case of a Weimaraner, if it has been certified by the Weimaraner Club of America to have passed an All-Age Water Certification Test, or to have been given a rating of Novice Retrieving Dog, Retrieving Dog or Retrieving Dog Excellent, it shall be considered to have met the Water Test requirement."

10 "AND EXCEPT THAT a German Wirehaired Pointer, or Weimaraner, shall not be recorded an Amateur Field Champion unless it has also been certified by two of the approved judges to have passed, with an amateur handler (as determined by the Field Trial or Hunting Test Committee in accord with the Definition of an Amateur found in Chapter 17, Section 2), a Water Test at a licensed or member field trial or hunting test held by a Specialty Club for one of these two breeds. In the case of a Weimaraner, if it has been certified by the Weimaraner Club of America to have passed an All-Age Water Certification Test, or to have been given the rating of Novice Retrieving Dog, Retrieving Dog or Retrieving Dog Excellent, with an amateur handler, it shall be considered to have met the Water Test requirement."

The Board considered proposed amendments to the Agility Regulations. They would: add requirements for a dog to qualify at the standard levels; change equipment to provide more consistency and safety; give judges more leeway in designating courses; give clearer direction in faulting an out of control dog; and provide a Preferred Class to maintain a high level of achievement. Following a motion by Mr. Kelly, seconded by Dr. Battaglia, it was VOTED (unanimously) to amend the Agility Regulations, effective September 1, 2002, so that the affected sections would read as follows:

Chapter 2, Section 1. Classes
Revised:
Chapter 2, Section 1. (Paragraph 2)
A licensed or member agility trial need not include all of the regular agility classes, but a club will not be approved to hold the Open Standard/Jumpers With Weaves class unless it also holds the Novice Standard/Jumpers With Weaves class, nor will it be approved to hold Excellent Standard/Jumpers With Weaves class unless it also holds the Open Standard/Jumpers With Weaves class.
Clubs are eligible to hold an all Standard class trial or an all Jumpers With Weaves class trial. A club may be approved to hold an Excellent Standard and/or Excellent Jumpers With Weaves only trial on the day preceding, or the day after a minimum of a two-day trial in which all levels of agility classes are offered.
The licensed or member agility trial may also offer the non-regular International Sweepstakes Class in conjunction with the regular classes. Additional unrecognized non-regular classes may not be held at a licensed or sanctioned trial.

Chapter 2, Section 3. Height Divisions, Wickets, Measurement.

Revised:
Chapter 2, Section 3.
Dogs may only be entered in one jump height division per day for all classes. The following jump height divisions shall be used in all regular trial classes.

8 Inches: For dogs 10 inches and under at the withers.
12 Inches: For dogs 14 inches and under at the withers.
16 Inches: For dogs 18 inches and under at the withers.
20 Inches: For dogs 22 inches and under at the withers.
24 Inches: For dogs over 22 inches at the withers.

Owners are responsible for entering the proper height divisions. Handlers may opt to enter in a higher height division for all titling classes, but not in a division lower than their proper height division. If the dog's height at the withers exceeds the maximum allowed for the jump height which the dog has entered, the dog shall be moved up into the proper jump height if the dog was measured prior to their run. In no case may a dog be moved down in height based on a judge's measurement at a trial. Dogs that run in a height division lower than their proper division will be eliminated. Judges reserve the right to measure any dog they believe might belong in a different division, and any dog whose entry in a given division might be questioned. Exception: Owners/Handlers that have in their possession (on the show grounds) a permanent or valid temporary Jump Height Card for the dog in question, issued by the AKC Agility Dept., are exempt from being measured and the judge shall accept the measurement that is listed on the Jump Height Card.

Chapter 2, Section 4. Jump Height Card.
New:
All dogs competing in Agility must present a valid official Jump Height Card.

For dogs two years and older, Owners/Handlers must present a permanent height card at check-in or be measured prior to competing.

For dogs under two years of age, the Owner/Handler must present a temporary height card at check-in or be measured prior to competing.

Dogs that do not have a Jump Height Card, will be measured by a Judge of record for that trial and will only be effective for that set of trials, excluding the dogs jumping in the 24-inch height division.

If an AKC Field Representative or a Volunteer Measuring Official (VMO) is present, all dogs must be measured for a Jump Height Card.

If a dog is measured by an AKC Field Representative or Volunteer Measuring Official (VMO) and is now eligible to jump in lower height class, the measurement is only effective for any trials that have not reached their closing date.

Each dog is allowed one re-measurement per lifetime if the dog is past their second birthday. Prior to the second birthday, a dog may have one additional measurement after the initial official measuring. In both cases, the measurement official is to be told the re-measurement is a "challenge" measurement.

Misrepresentation of a dog, including altering information on a Jump Height Card, is grounds for misconduct. Exhibitors should carry the original valid official Jump Height Card at each trial to present upon request.

All dogs that have not been officially measured for a Jump Height Card may still compete; however, they must be measured by the Judge of record, prior to running at each trial. The Judge's measurement will be valid for this trial (or weekend) only. For the Judge's planning purposes, the Trial Secretary should provide the Judge with a list of dogs that will require measuring. If a measurement is necessary, it is the exhibitor's responsibility to have their dog(s) measured prior to running.

Chapter 3, Obstacle Specifications and Performance Requirements
Revised:
Chapter 3, Section 3. Obstacles. (1. A Frame)
1. A-Frame: The A-Frame is constructed from two panels, the top surface of which is constructed from wood or a wood-like substance. The panels are 35 to 49 inches wide, and their length is within 2 inches of 9 feet. Panels shall be of a consistent width, flat and straight, and connected so as to eliminate gaps large enough to fit a dog's foot or toe. The height of the A-Frame is to be set within 1 inch of 5 foot 6 inches. The top surface is painted and has a rough, non-slip surface (alternating layers of sand and flat latex paint are recommended). Slats are placed across the width of the panels to provide footing. They are 3/8" to 1/2" thick and 3/4" to 1-1/2" wide, and they extend to within 1/4" of the panel sides. Slat edges shall be rounded or beveled so as not to be sharp, and 1/4" radius is recommended. The centers of the slats are placed at 12-inch intervals with a 2-inch tolerance, and no slat is within 4 inches of the top of a contact zone. Contact zones are painted on the lower 42 inches of both panels with a 1/4" tolerance. The color of the zones must contrast with the rest of the panel, but may not be white, black or brown. Bright yellow contact zones are recommended.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (5. Open Tunnel)
Revised:
The two openings are round with a height and width of 24 inches plus or minus 2 inches.
Open tunnels must be made of an opaque material. To ensure safety, the color of the material of an open tunnel may not be black and if the tunnel is double lined, dark interiors such as dark blue, dark brown, dark green, dark red/burgundy, and dark purple shall not be allowed.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (6. Closed Tunnel)
Revised:
The length of the chute is such that the overall length of the Closed Tunnel is 12 to 15 feet.
At the judge's discretion, the length of the fabric chute may be reduced to six feet in length in severe weather conditions. Severe weather includes rain, sleet and snow, but does not include dew, or windy conditions.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (7. Weave Poles)
Revised:
The Weave Poles consist of 6 to 12 poles that are mounted to a base (individual, stick-in-the ground poles may be used on an emergency basis). The weaves shall have a fixed base with a rigid upright, to support the pole, no greater than 4 inches high as measured from the ground to the top of the rigid support. The base may be no higher than 3/4 inch and no wider than 3-1/2 inches. The base should be secured, so that the weave poles do not move from their location on the course. The poles are 1 to 1-1/4 inches in diameter and at least 36 inches in height, and they are uniformly spaced at intervals of 20 to 24 inches (22 inches is recommended). The pole shall be made out of Schedule 40 PVC or another material that provides an equal amount of flex when set in the fixed base. Poles must be striped with a contrasting color so as to be visible to the dog. At a minimum, stripes must be placed at approximately 10 inches and 20 inches from the ground. Alternately, poles that flex at the base (spring type designs) are not recommended, but may only be used if they do not pose any safety or performance concerns. Safety concerns include; springs that can catch a dog's hair and poles that flex too much causing the pole to spring back and strike the dog. Performance concerns include; poles where dogs can "plow" the poles without a discernable weaving motion, and poles that do not return to an upright position by themselves after a dog has gone through them. Furthermore, a pole that can be bent to the ground is not acceptable.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (8. Bar Jumps) (Paragraph 2)
Revised:
Constructed from wood or plastic, they must be 4 to 5 feet long and striped for visibility. (Bars cut from PVC shall be Schedule 40.)

Chapter 3, Section 3. (9. Panel Jump)
Add:
The support ends for the panels are recommended to be rounded like a jump bar fitting into a jump cup. This will help keep the panels on the uprights in windy conditions. Flat plank ends on flat supports are discouraged.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (10. Double Bar Jump)
Revised:
Alternately, the bottom bars may be placed one under each horizontal bar and crossed to the ground creating an "X". All other specifications are the same as for the Bar Jump.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (12. Tire Jump)
Revised:
12. Tire Jump: The Tire Jump consists of a tire (or a circular object that resembles
a tire) suspended from a rectangular frame.
New paragraph:
The tire shall not be displaceable off the frame. The tire shall have a minimum depth of 2 inches and must be made of a flexible material, such as rubber or plastic to allow some give if hit by the dog.

Performance: Dogs must jump through the tire opening in the direction specified by the judge without knocking the tire/frame over.

Chapter 3, Section 3. (13. Window Jump)
Revised: None

Chapter 3, Section 3. (13. Broad Jump)
Revised:
13. Broad Jump: The Broad Jump is composed of either four 8-inch sections or five 6-inch sections, and four corner markers. The actual width of the 8-inch sections is 7 to 8 inches, and the width of the 6-inch sections is 5 to 7 inches. The sections are constructed from a top piece and two side pieces. The length of the sections are between 4 and 5 feet long, and they may be of different lengths. To improve visibility, either the center of the sections or both ends must be marked with a color-contrasting band that is at least 3 inches wide. The sections are of varying height, and they shall be arranged in ascending order.
Each section of a broad Jump is at least 1/2 inch higher than the previous one, and the height of the front edge of a section is at least 1/2 inch lower than the back edge. No portion of any section may be lower than 3-1/2 inches or higher than 8-1/2 inches.
The length of the jump is twice the jump height of the division. Consequently, not all the sections are used in the lower height divisions. In those cases, the jump must be assembled with the lowest sections. The length of the jump (within 1 inch) and the number of sections to be used for the different divisions are as follows:

Chapter 3, Section 3. (14. Other Jumps)
Revised:
14. Other Jumps: Other jumps are permitted. Their uprights and bar supports must conform to the specifications for the Bar Jump, as do the jump heights. The top cross-piece over which the dogs jump must have a top edge that is flat for 4 to 5 feet, be no thicker than 1-3/4 inches, and it must be supported on the bar supports so as to be easily displaceable. At least one more crosspiece must be used, as specified for the Bar Jump.
Performance: Dogs must jump over the top crosspiece, without displacing it, in the direction indicated by the judge.

Chapter 4. General Course and Trial Requirements
Revised:
Chapter 4, Section 3. Course Requirements.
The course layout for each class must be conspicuously posted at least one-half hour before the start of the class.
Course designs must comply with the current edition of the course design standards and be submitted for approval to the AKC Agility Dept.

Chapter 4, Section 4. Obstacle and Jump Positions. (Paragraph 2)
Revised:
It is recommended that there be a minimum of 15 feet to 18 feet between obstacles, with a minimum of 18 feet to a jump, 21 feet to a spread jump, and a maximum of 30 feet between any two obstacles in sequence as measured along the anticipated path of a 20 inch high jumping dog. Spread jumps (Triple bar, Double Bar and Broad Jump) shall not be the first obstacle on the course and if set up in sequence there shall be a minimum of 21 feet between the two spread jumps. To prevent the course from becoming spread out and too long, 25 feet to 30 feet spacing should be used only in special cases.

Chapter 4, Section 5. Approach Angles.
Revised:
Approach angles are determined based on the anticipated path of a 20 inch high jumping dog through the obstacles. Approach angles to obstacles shall not exceed the following, with additional consideration for safety, based on the obstacle being approached and the running surface.
- All Novice Classes - Generally not exceeding 90 degrees, but must not exceed two times at 135 degrees.
- All Open Classes - Generally not exceeding 135 degrees, but must not exceed two times at 180 degrees.
- All Excellent Classes - Generally not exceeding 180 degrees, but must not exceed two times at 270 degrees.

Chapter 4, Section 10. Leashes. (Paragraph 1).
Revised:
Handlers shall be allowed to bring their dog to the start line on leash. Handlers shall comply with the judges instructions for being ready to start their run, having their dog off leash and under control in a timely manner. Dogs shall not be faulted for the act of playing tug on the leash, nor for going to or picking up a leash laid in the ring (usually laid after the last obstacle or near the ring exit).

Chapter 4, Section 12. Handling Aids.
Revised:
Food and toys are not permitted in the course area and handlers are not permitted to use or have in their possession while running the course, whistles, stopwatches, leashes, fanny packs or other handling/training aids.

Chapter 5. General Scoring Criteria
Revised:
Chapter 5, Section 4. Item c. Pause Table Faults.
- Leaving the table prior to completing the prescribed sit or down position for 5 consecutive seconds. A 5-point deduction per occurrence and the dog must come back and finish the table with the 5-second count started anew.
- A dog that breaks the sit or down position but does not leave the table incurs no penalty fault other than the time it takes to restart the 5-second count from the beginning once the dog has reassumed the correct position.
- Anticipating the count (i.e.: a dog is released or releases itself immediately before or during the judge's command of "Go"). A 5-point deduction is incurred and the dog should not return to the table.

Chapter 5, Section 4. Item d. Outside Assistance.
Revised:
Interference or outside assistance that aids or is intended to aid the performance of a singular dog or handler. Faults shall be at the Judge's discretion from a 5-point deduction to elimination.

Chapter 5, Section 4. Item e. Failure to Control.
New:
Dogs are to be under the handler's control when leaving the ring (either on leash or under verbal control), in close proximity to the handler and responsive to the handler's commands. For safety purposes the handler shall place the dog on leash as soon as possible upon completing the course. At the discretion of the judge, failure to control the dog upon exiting shall result in a deduction of 5 points to elimination. Each 5-point penalty assessed shall be recorded as a refusal.

Chapter 5, Section 5. Item 10. Mandatory Elimination (NQ).
Revised:
Contact between the handler and the dog that aids the performance of the dog.

Chapter 5, Section 6. Item 13. Mandatory Excusals.
New:
13. Failure to comply with judge's verbal instructions.

Chapter 6. Standard Agility Classes
Revised:
Chapter 6, Section 2. Novice A and B Agility Class.
Performance Standards:
- Minimum allowable score required to qualify = 85.
- Additional non-qualifying faults (beyond those listed in Chapter 5 Sections 5 and 6).
- More than 2 Refusal/Run-outs
- More than 2 Wrong Courses
- More than 2 Table Faults
Refusals and Run-outs during the performance of the Weave Poles will not be faulted.

Chapter 6, Section 3. Open Agility Class.
Revised:
Performance Standards:
Minimum allowable score required to qualify = 85.
Additional non-qualifying faults (beyond those listed in Chapter 5, Section 5 and 6)
More than 1 Refusal/Run-out
More than 1 Wrong Course
More than 1 Table Fault

Chapter 6, Section 4. Excellent A Agility Class.
Revised:
Performance Standards:
- Minimum allowable score required to qualify = 85.
- Additional non-qualifying faults (beyond those listed in Chapter 5, Sections 5 and 6)
- Any Refusal/Run-out
- Any Wrong Course
- Any Table Fault

Chapter 6, Section 5. Excellent B Agility Class.
Performance Standards revised effective January 1, 2003:
- Minimum allowable score required to qualify = 85. (Effective 1-1-2003 the minimum qualifying score will be 100) (Note that a score of 100 is required to obtain MACH points and 2Q's.)
- Additional non-qualifying faults (beyond those listed in Chapter 5, Sections 5 and 6)
Any Course Faults.

Chapter 6, Equipment Chart.
Revised:
SEE EXHIBIT A (Obstacles and Class Chart)
*A minimum of 2 and a maximum of 3 spreads must be used and 2 different types of spread jumps must be used on the course.

Chapter 8. Preferred Agility Classes Standard and Jumpers With Weaves
New:
Chapter 8, Section 1. Purpose
These classes afford an opportunity for a greater variety of dogs, and their handlers to participate in the sport of agility. Owners/Handlers have the choice of entering the Preferred Classes with its modified standards as listed in this chapter, over those standards listed in Chapters 5, 6 and 7.

Chapter 8, Section 2. Standards.
The Preferred Classes are subject to all standards as listed in the Regulations for Agility Trials, except as modified in this chapter.

Chapter 8, Section 3. Eligibility.
The Preferred Classes are open to any dog eligible to enter an agility trial as defined in Chapter 1, Section 3. The same Regulations apply for divisions A and B as those described for the regular titling classes.
The owner may choose to enter the Preferred Standard Agility Class and Preferred Jumpers With Weaves Class in lieu of entering the Regular Standard Agility Class and the Regular Jumpers With Weaves Class at any trial. The dog must be entered only in Preferred Classes or in Regular Classes, with no crossover between them being allowed at the same set of trials.
Owners/dogs are allowed to switch back and forth between the Preferred Classes and the Regular Classes, but not at the same set of trials.

Chapter 8, Section 4. Classes.
The Preferred Classes and associated titles are:

Preferred Standard Agility Classes
Novice Agility Preferred - NAP
Open Agility Preferred - OAP
Agility Excellent "A" Preferred- AXP
Master Agility Excellent "B" Preferred - MXP

Preferred Jumpers With Weaves Classes
Novice Jumpers With Weaves Preferred - NJP
Open Jumpers With Weaves Preferred - OJP
Excellent Jumpers With Weaves "A" Preferred - AJP
Master Excellent Jumpers With Weaves "B" Preferred - MJP
A club holding an agility trial must offer all of the Preferred Classes and Preferred Class levels equivalent to the Regular Classes and Regular Class levels offered at the trial. It is highly recommended that the Preferred Classes be run concurrently with the Regular Classes using the same course as the Regular Classes to minimize exhibitor walkthroughs, judge's briefings, and jump height changes.

All dogs entering the Preferred Classes for the first time must enter the Novice level in both the Preferred Standard Agility Class and the Preferred Jumpers With Weaves Class regardless of their previous title level in the Regular Classes (Standard and JWW). There is no grandfathering of titles from the Regular Classes to the Preferred Classes or from the Preferred Classes to the Regular Classes. These classes are separate titling programs and in both cases the dogs must start at the Novice level.

• Dogs may be entered in only one (1) Preferred Standard Agility class and one (1) Preferred Jumpers With Weaves Class per day.
• A dog may continue to compete at each level until they achieve a qualifying score at the next higher level.
• The Preferred Standard Agility Class and the Preferred JWW Class are separate titling programs and a dog may advance faster in one than the other (A dog that has achieved its NJP is eligible for and may enter the Open Jumpers With Weaves Preferred Class. The same dog must also achieve three (3) qualifying scores in the Standard Novice Agility Preferred Class before being eligible to move-up to the Standard Open Agility Preferred Class).

In order to acquire a Preferred Agility title, a dog must earn the following number of qualifying scores per Preferred Class level, under at least two (2) different judges.
(See Exhibit B for Table of Qualifying Scores)

Chapter 8, Section 5. Recognized Achievement.
The highest level of achievement in the Preferred Classes is the Master Agility Excellent Preferred (MXP) and the Master Excellent Jumpers With Weaves Preferred (MJP). Recognizing consistency and longevity, for the Preferred Classes only, the AKC will record and add to any dog's title, the number 2 for achieving 20 qualifying scores in the Master Excellent Preferred Classes. There is no limit to this achievement for example; a dog with 30 MXP qualifying scores, and 40 MJP qualifying scores would have the titles of MXP3 and MJP4.

Chapter 8, Section 6. Height Divisions.
The following jump height divisions shall be used in all Preferred classes:

4 Inches: For dogs 10 inches and under at the withers.
8 Inches: For dogs 14 inches and under at the withers.
12 Inches: For dogs 18 inches and under at the withers.
16 Inches: For dogs 22 inches and under at the withers.
20 Inches: For dogs over 22 inches at the withers.

Chapter 8, Section 7. Obstacle Specifications and Performance Requirements.
Refer to Chapter 3, Section 3 except as changed below:
Pause Table: The Pause Table shall be set at 12 inches for the 4, 8, and 12-inch jump heights, and 16 inches for the 16 and 20 inch jump heights.
Bar Jumps: Bar Jumps are to be set at 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 inches. For 4 inch jumping dogs a second (lower) bar is not required, but if provided, it should be placed under the top bar or directly adjacent to a ground bar that is directly under the top bar.
Double Bar Jump: Set the Double Bar Jump at 4 inches high and 4 inches wide for the 4-inch jump height class.
Triple Bar Jump: The Triple Bar Jump for the 4-inch jump height class is to be set with the first bar on the ground approximately 4 inches in front of the back bar, which should be placed at 4 inches high. For 4-inch jumping dogs this jump will be set typically using two bars only. Dogs must clearly jump both bars for successful performance.
The Broad Jump: The Broad Jump shall be set as one board (the lowest) for the 4-inch jumping dogs.
Tire Jump: The Tire shall be set at 4 inches or as close as possible given the construction of the tire.

Chapter 8, Section 8. Scoring Criteria.
The scoring for the Preferred Classes shall be equal to that of its equivalent level in the Regular Classes, as listed in Chapters 6 and 7, with the exception of the Standard Course Times.

Standard Agility Preferred Classes
Novice Agility Preferred (NAP) = Novice A and B Agility (NA)
Open Agility Preferred (OAP) = Open Agility Class (OA)
Agility Excellent "A" Preferred Class (AXP) = Excellent A Agility Class (AX)
Master Agility Excellent "B" Preferred Class (MXP) = Excellent B Agility Class (MX)

Jumpers With Weaves Preferred Classes
Novice Jumpers With Weaves Preferred (NJP) = Novice A and B JWW (NAJ)
Open Jumpers With Weaves Preferred (OJP) = Open JWW (OAJ)
Excellent "A" Jumpers With Weaves Preferred (AJP) = Excellent A JWW (AXJ)
Master Excellent "B" Jumpers With Weaves Preferred (MJP) = Excellent B JWW (MXJ)

Course Times: The Standard Course Times (SCT's) for the Preferred Classes will be the same as the Standard Course Times for the Regular Classes, as listed in Chapters 6 and 7, plus five (5) additional seconds as shown in the chart below.
(See Exhibit C for Chart of Course Times)

Example: An Open Standard Agility course that is 160 yards long for the 20 and 24-inch Regular Class would have a SCT of (64 seconds plus 5 seconds for the table) = 69 seconds, based on Chapter 6, Section 3. In the Open Agility Preferred Class the course yardage for the 16 and 20-inch class would also be 160 yards with a SCT of (69 seconds based on the Regular Class + 5 seconds) = 74 seconds.

EXHIBIT A - CHAPTER 6, STANDARD AGILITY CLASSES - EQUIPMENT CHART

EXHIBIT B - QUALIFYING SCORES

In order to acquire a Preferred Agility title, a dog must earn the following number of qualifying scores per Preferred Class level under at least two (2) different judges.

Preferred Standard Agility Class	Qualifying Scores Required	Preferred JWW Class	Qualifying Scores Required	Scores Obtained From
NAP	3	NJP	3	Novice Preferred
OAP	3	OJP	3	Open Preferred
AXP	3	AJP	3	Ex. A Preferred
MXP	10	MJP	10	Ex. B Preferred

EXHIBIT C - STANDARD COURSE TIMES

Course Times: The Standard Course Times (SCT's) for the Preferred Classes will be the same as the Standard Course Times for the Regular Classes as listed in Chapters 6 and 7,plus five (5) additional seconds as shown in the chart below.

Regular Class Jump Height	Preferred Class Jump Height	Course Distance Based On	SCT’s Based On Regular Classes (Chapters 6 and 7)	Added Time For Preferred Classes: Std And JWW
24"	20"	20" Jumping Dog	20" and 24" Division SCT’s	Plus 5 Seconds
20"	16"	20" Jumping Dog	20" and 24" Division SCT’s	Plus 5 Seconds
16"	12"	12" Jumping Dog	16" Division SCT’s	Plus 5 Seconds
12"	8"	12" Jumping Dog	8" and 12" Division SCT’s	Plus 5 Seconds
8"	4"	12" Jumping Dog	8" and 12" Division SCT’s	Plus 5 Seconds

Example: An Open Standard Agility course that is 160 yards long for the 20" and 24" Regular Class would have a SCT of (64 seconds plus 5 seconds for the table) = 69 seconds based on Chapter 6, Section 3. In the Open Agility Preferred Class the course yardage for the 20" and 16" class would also be 160 yards with a SCT of (69 seconds based on the Regular Class + 5 Seconds) = 74 seconds.

The Committee discussed a letter from the Yellowstone Valley Kennel Club concerning the permitting of a club to participate in a cluster more than 100 miles from its area and a request from the Ramapo Kennel Club and Rock Creek Kennel Club to hold events on the same day within 200 miles of each other. The former was not approved by the committee and the latter will be going forward for consideration by the full Board in April.

The committee also discussed the concept of a Pan American Canine Exposition, which would be a competitive event for the top dogs in the Western Hemisphere and the Companion Events Tournament (Obedience, Agility, Tracking, and CGC), which is to be held in Perry, Georgia on April 26-28, 2002.

Mr. Menaker gave a report from the Business Committee. The committee discussed the total cost of running the Events Department and the commission of a painting depicting the Canine Search and Rescue effort in the aftermath of September 11, 2001. While the committee is reviewing all fee structures, it agreed to extend the licenses of all AKC superintendents through the end of 2002. Mr. Menaker reported that Animal Planet was very pleased with the ratings received by the Classic. The viewership was the highest Animal Planet had ever received for a dog show, in fact 220% higher than any other dog show it had aired.

The Business Committee discussed the DOGNY project. Following a motion by Dr. Garvin, seconded by Ms. Scully, it was VOTED (unanimously) to appropriate an additional $80,000 to fund the DOGNY project for two months. The initial appropriation had been $85,000.

Dr. Battaglia gave a report from the Operations and Planning Committee.

The Operations and Planning Committee discussed criteria for opening and closing a breed stud book for changing a breed name, and for retiring a kennel name. It also discussed the registrant concept rule changes, which were currently being reviewed by three AKC Delegate Committees. Staff is developing a fact sheet. This, as well as the proposed arbitration procedure and the sample registrant contract, will be distributed to the Board prior to the March Delegates meeting.

The committee also discussed mandatory educational requirements for clubs and the Board agreed this could be a discussion item for a future Board workshop.

Mrs. Strand gave a report from the Public Relations and Public Affairs Committee.

The Board considered a proposal from the Public Relations and Public Affairs Committee for an image campaign consisting of AKC banners and signs that could be displayed at AKC events. The proposal consisted of a two-tiered program. In the first part, AKC would provide AKC banners and signs to superintendents to display at events. In the second part, more extensive sign/banner packages would be made available for purchase by clubs directly from AKC. Following a motion by Mr. Menaker, seconded by Mr. Marden, it was VOTED (unanimously) to consider this proposal at this meeting, waiving the usual prior notice requirement. Following a motion by Dr. Battaglia, seconded by Mr. Goodman, it was VOTED (unanimously) to adopt this program, with the first banners/signs distributed to superintendents by April 1, 2002. The Public Relations and Public Affairs Committee also discussed the DOGNY dog sculpture initiative, and the communications staff search.

During New Business, Dr. Battaglia initiated discussion on the concept of a Working Dog competition that could provide an activity that would enable breeders and owners to become support groups or candidates for homeland defense use (FEMA, military, law enforcement, and civil defense). This concept was referred to the Events and Clubs Committee for review.

The Board discussed the subject of reciprocal judging approval with foreign kennel clubs. Staff was compiling the criteria used by AKC to approve foreign judges and the criteria used by foreign registries to approve AKC judges. The issue was raised because of The Kennel Club's (England) recently adopted requirement that an AKC judge must judge a breed at the championship level at AKC shows for seven years before being eligible to be considered for a judging assignment in England. Following a motion by Dr. Smith, seconded by Mr. Gladstone, it was VOTED (unanimously) to direct staff to write to The Kennel Club, advising it that the AKC Board was reviewing the reciprocal judging approval qualifications and criteria to ensure that they were fair and equitable beween the two countries.

The Board considered a request from the German Shepherd Dog Club of America for permission to hold a Schutzhund demonstration at its 2002 National Specialty Show. Following a motion by Mrs. Strand, seconded by Mr. Kelly, this request was VOTED (unanimously) to be approved.

There being no further business to come before the meeting, and upon motion made
and seconded, it was
VOTED: To adjourn at 3:05 p.m., Friday, February 8, 2002.
Adjourned

Attest:

James P. Crowley
Executive Secretary