Letter to AKC Judges Regarding Canine Influenza

The following letter has been sent to all AKC conformation judges.

Dear AKC Judge,

As you may be aware, there has been a recent increase in reported cases of Canine Influenza. In consideration of this fact, and for the safety and welfare of our dogs, Judging Operations strongly advises that all judges should ask the exhibitor to show the bite/open the mouth when conducting oral exams.

This recommendation is consistent with information included in The Rules, Policies and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show Judges under Evaluating a Dog’s Mouth (page 13), “Many exhibitors prefer to open their dogss mouth themselves for examination. However, you have the authority to personally open the dog’s mouth.”

We do encourage judge’s as a general practice to ask exhibitors to open the mouth. In addition to sanitary reasons; the exhibitor is familiar with the dog resulting in a more efficient and pleasant experience. If necessary, as the judge you do have the authority to personally open the dog’s mouth. If it does become necessary or you elect to conduct the oral exam yourself, we do advise that you sanitize your hands after examining each dog.

Please do not hesitate to contact Judging Operations or speak with the Executive Field Representative in attendance with any questions you may have.

Thank you,

Tim Thomas
Director, Dog Show Judges
(919) 816-3639

Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=76453

Posted by chesliepickett on Apr 28 2015. Filed under Featured, The Buzz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.