The American Kennel Club (AKC) has announced that it is launching the AKC Canine Officer Program, in an effort to highlight the contributions of dogs working in public service.
This program will recognize dogs that work for government agencies including police, military, border patrol, TSA, USDA, transit authorities and other programs. These modern day working dogs use inherited characteristics and skills that are valued and preserved by traditional performance events. They possess the skills, intelligence and necessary cooperative attitudes to excel at their jobs.
"Purpose-bred dogs serve our communities in various ways that provide an extra level of security for all of us." said Doug Ljungren, AKC's vice president of sports and events. "We are partnering with our clubs to recognize their daily, valued contributions to our society and show our appreciation for all that they do."
The AKC will work with its many local clubs that currently support working dogs in their communities. A local club can submit a request for a 'Certificate of Appreciation' to the Sports Services department and the certificate will be awarded to the working dog in an official ceremony of their choosing. In addition to the certificate, the dog and the supporting club will receive a photo and profile on akc.org. Any working dog is eligible to receive the certificate and is not required to be registered with the AKC, however, the AKC will offer a free registration to the recipients if the government agency desires it.
For questions, concerns, or form submission, please email [email protected].
