The American Kennel Club® announced today that Janet DiNitto of Sauquoit, New York has been named a recipient of the AKC® Community Achievement Award. DiNitto, recognized for her longtime dedication to educating her community on the responsibilities of dog ownership, received one of three awards this quarter – Andrew D’Ambrose of Woodbridge, Conn. and the Northern Neck Kennel Club of Va. also received acknowledgement.
The AKC Community Achievement Awards support and recognize outstanding public education and legislation efforts of AKC-affiliated clubs, AKC-recognized federations and their members. The AKC selects award recipients who promote purebred dogs and responsible dog ownership within their communities or who have successfully introduced, monitored and responded to legislative issues affecting dog ownership.
DiNitto is Vice President of the Central New York Kennel Club. In the past she has served the club as President, Treasurer, Obedience Chair and Tracking Chair. For several years she has worked with young dog-lovers of the Oneida County 4-H Club, judging their annual show at the county fair, organizing awards presentations, and teaching handling skills and responsible ownership to members. She has given lectures to public school students on “Careers With Dogs” and has organized similar talks given by fellow fanciers.
Acting as a past president of the Irish Setter Club of Central New York, DiNitto organizes the popular “Dogs of Ireland” contingent that marches in Utica’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. She has also organized a successful “dog art” exhibition as part of a public awareness campaign for a local dog park and given Canine Good Citizen classes at her workplace, the Loretto-Utica Adult Residence.
“For years, Janet DiNitto has been working hard on behalf of man’s best friend,” said Noreen Baxter, AKC’s VP of Communications. “The American Kennel Club applauds DiNitto for her willingness to share her knowledge about dogs with her community and her tireless dedication to making sure her message is heard.”
Nominations for the AKC Community Achievement Awards are accepted year-round. Up to three honorees are named each quarter. They receive a certificate of appreciation and a $1,000 check payable to the club or federation’s public education and canine legislation efforts. To nominate a club, click here.