In honor of past and future AKC® award winners crowned and celebrated at the Annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championship dog show I am pleased to announce that the AKC has recently installed a “Wall of Fame” at the American Kennel Club Library in New York City.
Joining the 18,000 volumes of canine works and rare books in the library are four unique commemorative plaques with the names of the past winners of not only the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship Best in Show and Best Bred-by Exhibitor in Show but the AKC Breeder of the Year as well as the Awards for Canine Excellence.
The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship Best in Show plaque features the show’s winners since the show’s inception in 2001. It is a record of the dog’s registered name, breed, owners, breeders, and the judge who bestowed top honors for that year.
The award for Best Bred-by-Exhibitor in Show is the newest award and was first presented in 2003. The plaque is called “The Breeders’ Showcase” and is, arguably, the most coveted prize for breeder-owner-handlers.
The Breeder of the Year Award was first given in 2002. It honors breeders in each of the seven groups who have dedicated their lives to improving the health, temperament and quality of purebred dogs. The engraving above the names on the plaque says the rest, “The Heart, Soul, and Future of our sport.”
The Award for Canine Excellence commemorates loyal, hard-working dogs that have made significant contributions to their community. The awards held annually since 2000 in each of the following five categories are Law Enforcement, Search and Rescue, Therapy, Service and Exemplary Companion Dog.
Come experience our Wall of Fame surrounded by the trappings depicting our rich tradition such as rare books, oil paintings, and sterling silver trophies at the AKC Library. Visitors are always welcome without appointment weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the AKC’s New York City Headquarters at 260 Madison Avenue.
Sincerely,
Ron Menaker
Chairman