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Health & Fitness

Abby Kennels' Mia Takes On The AKC

Those of you who follow the Abby Kennels’ blog are familiar with Mia zur Bindenberg, a two year old working line German Shepherd out of Abby Kennels.  Mia has already had many, well-documented adventures.  She rules the Kennel’s daycare, enjoying endless fun with her doggie friends; she serves as a mascot for a Marine unit deployed in Afghanistan; she even earned a German Title in the sport of Schutzhund.   But her latest adventure has us even more excited than any of her previous ones.

In 1989, the American Kennel Club established the Canine Good Citizen certification program.  The purpose of the CGC is to stress responsible pet ownership.  The AKC believes training enhances the bond between owner and dog.  A well-mannered dog can be more fully involved in an owner’s life.   In January 2013, the CGC was elevated to an official AKC Title that can appear on the title records of dogs registered with the AKC.  Intense lobbying by trainers and owners convinced the AKC that the test should carry a title with it to stress the importance of basic obedience.

The Canine Good Citizen certification is a two step process.  Owners take a pledge indicating that their dog is under the routine care of a vet.  Together, dog and owner then participate in a ten step “test” that demonstrates the owner’s ability to handle his/her dog and the dog’s ability to follow commands.  As long as the dog is old enough to have the necessary immunizations, s/he can participate.  There is no age limit on the test either, putting to rest the notion that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”  Some old dogs need to learn new tricks.  Every dog, no matter the age, should have good manners.

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So why is all this important?   In a previous blog (January 2013), we discussed the dismal statistics of dogs given up to shelters and rescue groups because of lack of training.  The CGC is one step on the road to keeping dogs in homes.  The CGC is also a requirement for therapy dog certification, helps with homeowners insurance and is sometimes necessary for admission to dog parks.  Aside from all that, the AKC Canine Good Citizen Title is a matter of pride.  It unequivocally demonstrates that the owner is serious about his/her commitment to his canine friend.

Mia is enrolled in the Abby Kennels group obedience class beginning Saturday, July 13th.  It is not necessary to take a training class to take the AKC CGC test.  In fact, we believe Mia could pass the test without a class.  However, we’re not so sure about her owner!  This class is geared toward the test and will instill handler confidence.  The test will be administered by an AKC certified evaluator on Saturday, August  17th at the Kennel.  The event is open to the public.  Come watch Mia pass with flying colors.  Better yet, come train with us and take the test with Mia!

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