— Governors of New York, North Carolina, Delaware, Oregon all designate Responsible Dog Ownership Days–

In honor of AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 17, 2005, the American Kennel Club and many of its affiliated clubs have received support – in the form or proclamations and congratulatory letters – from numerous government officials including the mayor of New York City, and the governors of New York, Delaware, Oregon and California.

AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day aims to educate dog owners about canine ownership and help them enhance their relationships with their pets. Over 350 events are being held by AKC clubs and other pet-related organizations throughout the month of September.

The following acknowledgements have been received:

• Governor George Pataki of the State of New York and Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City have proclaimed September 17, 2005, “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” in conjunction with the AKC's New York event at Madison Square Park.

• Mayor Charles Meeker of Raleigh, North Carolina proclaimed September 17, 2005, “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” in that city.

• Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California sent a letter of congratulations to Anderson Acres in Bakersfield, CA for their efforts to promote responsible dog ownership. Bakersfield Mayor Harvey Hall presented a proclamation to Anderson Acres during their September 17 event.

• Governor Ted Kulongoski of Oregon honored the Mixed Breed Dog Club of America, a group based in Albany, OR, with a proclamation honoring, “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” in that state.

• The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners, Gwinnett County, Georgia, proclaimed September 17, 2005, “Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” to honor AKC and the Lawrenceville Kennel Club. The presentation was held at the Commissioners' meeting on September 6.

• Ruth Ann Minner, Governor, and John C. Carney, Jr., Lieutenant Governor, the State of Delaware, have declared September 17, 2005, “Responsible Dog Ownership Day”. Pat Bagger of the Wilmington Kennel Club arranged for the proclamation.

• Mayor Len Holzinger of Grants Pass, Oregon, will proclaim September 24, 2005, “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” to recognize the efforts of Rogue Valley Kennel Club.

• Mayor Sally Hutton of Richmond, Indiana will present TLC Pet Hospital a proclamation during the clinic’s September 24 “AKC RDO Day” event.

• Mayor Michael J. Moncrief of Fort Worth, Texas signed a proclamation declaring September 17, 2005, “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day,” in that city. The Doberman Pinscher Club of Dallas arranged for the recognition.

• Virginia State Senator Ed Houck presented legislation to the Virginia State General Assembly declaring September 17 and the week of September 18, “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Week.” Fancier Maureen Hill-Hauch arranged for the honor.

• The Chester County Board of Commissioners in Pennsylvania presented a proclamation to the Dog Training Club of Chester County honoring their efforts to promote proper canine care.