New York, NY – Sometimes we all need a reminder of everything that is required of us as dog owners. Sure we give our pups lots of playtime, treats and affection, but what about training? Is your dog groomed as often as his breed requires? Is your pup wearing a collar with tags and permanently identified with a microchip to maximize his chances of being returned to you if he becomes lost?

Bringing the message of AKC® Responsible Dog Ownership Day to life, the American Kennel Club® today announced the launch of the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise. This 10-step oath is a reminder to both novice and veteran dog owners that raising a healthy dog is about more than just playtime and pampering. Training, grooming, exercise and veterinary care are equally important in nurturing your best friend.

The AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise also advocates that owners must ensure that their canines do not infringe on the rights of others. This means adhering to local leash laws, properly disposing of your dog’s waste in all public areas, and training your dogs to sit, stay and come when called.

AKC petitions all dog owners to review the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise and sign it electronically at http://www.gopetition.com/online/9290.html.

“Dogs have never been more popular in our country --estimates as high as 74 million have been cited,” said AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “Our pets reward us daily with their loyalty and companionship, and they deserve the best care from us. We hope that new and experienced owners will make this pledge to their pet by putting their ‘paw print’ on the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise.”

AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day

The AKC promotes all aspects of dog care through its public education efforts year-round, but each September the organization shines a spotlight on responsible dog ownership when hundreds of local dog clubs and organizations nationwide host AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day events. Each event is unique and may include obedience/agility demonstrations, microchipping clinics, breed rescue information and advice from veterinarians and breed experts.

For those looking to go beyond the pledge to learn more about quality care of their four-legged friends, there is the AKC Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program sponsored by K9 Advantix®—a 10-step test certification that recognizes well-mannered, obedient dogs. Passing this test demonstrates an owner’s commitment and their dog’s contribution to the community. AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day events and AKC Canine Good Citizen tests are listed at http://www.akc.org/clubs/rdod/events/.

A printable version of the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise is available at http://www.akc.org/pdfs/clubs/rdod/PetPromise.pdf