You know I’m not concerned too much about pedigrees and AKC registrations. If it has fur and walks on all fours, it’s generally welcome at my house. I have a house suited for waifs and strays of all kinds, humans and animals.

So, when I was checking out the information for last week’s post on protecting pets, I was wondering how the AKC was involved. I was really surprised at the information on the AKC website, www.akc.org. They have all kinds of information about dogs, care, training, health, and nutrition. They also have the Pet Promise, a pledge for all responsible dog owners. It could also be changed a little and be used for all kinds of pets, not just dogs.

The Pet Promise states that I, as a responsible dog owner, promise to not overlook my responsibilities for my pet and realize that my pet’s welfare is dependent on me. I promise to provide fresh water and quality food for my dog. I promise to properly socialize my dog. I will keep my dog groomed. I will make sure my dog will sit, stay, and come reliably when called. I will take my pet to the vet regularly and keep vaccines up to date. I will pick up after my dog and properly dispose of the waste. As a responsible dog owner, I will be aware of my responsibilities to my neighbors and community. I will make sure that my dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. I will make sure my pet has proper identification. I will obey all leash laws.

You can sign the pet promise online or print one. There is more information about Responsible Dog Ownership Day events on the website too.  They even have a calendar of events by state. In Virginia, there are nine events listed in September. I’ve already told you about the Mutt Strutt on the 21^st in Suffolk from 1 to 5 p.m. For more info, go to www.suffolkhumanesociety.com.

The first event listed in Hampton Roads is in Gloucester on September 7^th. The Gloucester Kennel Club event is from 1:30 to 4:30 at 10360 Woods Cross Roads. For more info send an email to Diana Galloway at bugthequeen@gmail.com.

If you’re willing to travel a bit, there’s an event in Richmond on September 20th from 10 to 4 at The Critter Cottage Campus on Staples Mill Road. The Critter Cottage website is www.thecrittercottage.com. The Virginia Beach Kennel Club is hosting an event on the 20^th too. Theirs is from 8:30 to 3 at Kempsville Park. Their website is www.virginiabeachkennelclub.org.

On the 21^st there is an event for sighthounds at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park in Williamsburg from 9 a.m. until sunset. The Sighthound Organization of Tidewater event is actually a 2 day event. This way you can go to the event in Suffolk on Saturday and then go to Williamsburg on Sunday. Make a whole weekend of it!

Now that your weekends in September are all planned, I need to find events for October. If you know of any new events, send me an email.at bigdogmom@mailpuppy.com.

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