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Old money, steady habits and home to one of the oldest institutions in the country. Connecticut is associated with many things, both good and bad.  The state has an official insect (the European Mantis), hero (Nathan Hale), and even a state troubadour (Pierce Campbell) but when it comes to man’s best friend and feline, Connecticut comes up short.

Inspired by New York City’s October 16 & 17 Meet the Breeds event™, the world’s largest showcase of cats and dogs, the American Kennel Club (AKC®) and Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA®) searched through the distinct personality and characteristics of more than 200 dog and cat breeds to determine the best fit for various stereotypes attributed to Connecticut. Weigh in and cast your vote now at www.meetthebreeds.com by clicking “Vote Now,” or go to AOL PawNation and make your voice heard.   Among the choices:

OLD MONEYState known for having a large population of affluent families who have been wealthy for generations.
Dog Breed:  The Pointer is one of the first breeds registered by the AKC in 1884.  Pointers give the impression of power and grace, with a noble carriage, an intelligent expression and a muscular body.
Cat BreedThe Persian is the oldest known breed of cat. Early cargo caravans, bringing treasures from Persia (now Iran) to the east, often had a longhair cat among the rare spices and jewels they carried.

STEPFORD WIVES Term borrowed from the fictional suburb of Stepford, Connecticut in the 1970’s movie and novel about wives replaced with attractive robotic dolls devoid of emotion or thought.
Dog Breed:  The Golden Retriever can adapt to many different living situations.  Golden’s are both beautiful to look at and a joy to own.
Cat Breed:  The Ragdoll is the most laid back of the cat breeds.  Ragdolls will run to meet you at the door and be a loving companion who enjoys a good game of fetch once in a while.    

HIGHER EDUCATIONHome to some of the most diverse colleges in the U.S. including Yale and the University of Connecticut.
Dog Breed:  The Siberian Husky was named UConn’s mascot because the winters in Connecticut are as cold as those in the Yukon.  The Husky is known for its amazing endurance and outgoing temperament.
Cat Breed:  The Selkirk Rex has the perfect stamina to earn a college degree. Selkirks are incredibly patient, loving, and tolerant cats.

THE LAND OF STEADY HABITSObsessive, compulsive nickname given to Connecticut.
Dog Breed:  The Border Collie’s intense concentration, deep desire to please, as well as speed and intelligence give the breed the edge in just about any job he undertakes.
Cat Breed:  The Turkish Angora is about as steady and predictable as they come – if there is trouble to be had, they will be in the middle of it.  The breed is sweet and lovable, but is energetic and very inquisitive.

THIRD SMALLEST STATEThe nation’s third smallest state, Connecticut is less than 60 miles across and only 120 miles diagonally no point of the state is more than 3 hours from any other.
Dog Breed: The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers.  They are energetic and spry, and get along well with other animals.  Norfolk Terriers are also known for their ability to adapt to different living situations, which makes them ideal for either city or country living.
Cat Breed: The Singapura is one of the smallest breeds of pedigreed cats.  They are extroverts and will insist on being your helper with any task you undertake.

Learn more about these breeds and place your vote online at www.meetthebreeds.com by clicking “Vote Now” or at AOL PawNation for the dog and cat breed that best represents Connecticut.  Polls close September 20.  Log onto www.meetthebreeds.com on October 11 to find out what dog and cat American chose as the best match for Connecticut.

From the Afghan Hound to the Turkish Angora, the Meet the Breeds event will showcase 160 AKC registered dog breeds and 41 CFA registered cat breeds in booths individually decorated to depict each breed’s country of origin, historical purpose/function, and attributes as a family pet.  The family-friendly event is an opportunity for potential pet owners to interact with responsible breeders and play with dogs and cats while educating themselves about responsible pet ownership and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle.

Tickets allow admittance for one day and can be purchased online at www.meetTheBreeds.com.

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