The American Kennel Club realizes it takes a lot of time and research to select the right purebred puppy for your family. And the decisions do not stop once your puppy comes home. Now you have to start your pup on training, nutrition and health programs. The AKC would like to make your job a little easier.

The AKC has launched the AKC Veterinary Network Certificate Program to help start puppies on a lifelong healthcare plan. All newly registered puppies now receive a certificate for a complimentary veterinary office visit.

These certificates may be redeemed with one of the practices participating in the AKC Veterinary Network. These veterinarians receive the latest information on purebred dogs and canine health research from AKC. They also are a resource for AKC materials on many helpful topics, including training, breeding, competitive events, the Companion Animal Recovery program and pet health insurance.

To receive a certificate, just submit your e-mail address when you register your puppy with the AKC – either on the on-line or paper registration applications. You soon will receive an on-line certificate. A list of participating veterinarians in your area will accompany the certificate – and a complete list is available on this website.

Please present the certificate before the office visit. You may redeem the certificate for 60 days from the date of the puppy’s registration. The certificate is good for the first office visit and does not include vaccinations, X-rays, medical procedures or medications.

Eligible dogs are those being registered for the first time with AKC or recorded for the first time with FSS (Foundation Stock Services). Foreign dogs and PAL/ILP dogs are not eligible for the program.

Newly registered puppies are also eligible for a Complimentary 60-Day Trial AKC Pet Healthcare Plan, valued at $45, through PetPartners, Inc . Thousands of AKC registrants across the nation are benefiting from this no-obligation plan to cover pets' unexpected accidents, illnesses and injuries. Several annual plan options are also available to meet your specific needs to cover pet healthcare costs. For more information on the program, go to www.akcphp.com or call toll free 866-725-2747.

The AKC cares about you and your new puppy and hopes your new companion enjoys a long healthy life. Please consider us a resource as your canine friend grows and refer to our website for the many other benefits AKC offers its owners of registered dogs.