The Kennel Club

The Kennel Club based within the UK is the largest organisation which is especially dedicated to the health and welfare of dogs. The organisation holds the aim of protecting promoting the general wellbeing of dogs, at the heart of these programmes is education and health initiatives with the purpose of targeting dog owners.

The activities which the organisation participate are extensive, they include lobbying the government on dog welfare issues, this includes the banning of electric shock collars and also revising the Dangerous Dogs Act, there has also been work towards improving access for dog walkers. Grants have also been provided by the organisation, these donations have gone to welfare charities and to scientific research. The money has been used to help developments towards health testing for canine diseases and through the charitable trust. In total more than £4.5 million has been donated towards charities which deal with research in canine diseases.

The Kennel Club is also supported by other organisations including The Royal Veterinary College, The British Veterinary Association, Pets as Therapy, Canine Partners, The Animal Health Trust and The University of Liverpool.

The organisation deals closely with breeders and they ensure that all breeders are accredited. In order for breeders to be accredited, they must meet particular criteria. The criteria is, ensure that all breeding stock is Kennel Club registered, ensure the dog’s registration certificate at the time of sale is available and explain any endorsement that might pertain and obtain written and signed confirmation from the new owner.

Breeders should follow the Kennel Club policy which is regarding the maximum age and number of litters. Breeding stock should continually be identified through DNA profile, microchip or tattoo. The breeders should also make use of the health screening schemes, relevant to the correct breed and this includes DNA testing, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and inherited eye conditions. The Kennel Club also sell puppies and dogs, although before they can be bought from the organisation they must meet a strict criterion.

For example the organisation asks all potential owners to consider whether they can afford a dog, especially once all of the other costs have been considered. The organisation believes that the cost of running a dog each week is around £25.

It is also important for all of the dog owners to be aware that buying a dog will be a lifelong commitment and not a part time commitment. Prospective owners are also asked to consider whether their home is big enough, whether they can exercise a dog regularly and if they can find time to train, groom and generally care for a dog. If a dog has not already been born, it may be possible to put the prospective dog owner in touch with a breeder. This breeder may then be able to provide a dog towards the prospective owners needs.