Consider the Source...Oprah Winfrey

According to many reports, Oprah Winfrey will target the "puppy mill" issue in the United States on her program today. Ms. Winfrey's recently reported association with, and support for, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), will undoubtedly make this an extremely contentious subject. The impact will cross north of the border into most Canadian T.V. markets.   

The Canadian Kennel Club encourages all owners, breeders and members to review and familiarize themselves with the Official CKC Legislative Policy Statements on "Animal Welfare-Animal Rights", "Pet Store Puppies", "Purchaser Protection", "Rescue Clubs", and "Definition of a Puppy Mill". In Canada, the definition of a "puppy mill" was developed in 2002 by the National Companion Animal Coalition (NCAC), consisting of the Canadian Kennel Club, Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, Pet Industry Advisory Council of Canada, with Agriculture Agri-Food Canada as an observer member.

We hope that, as with many other programs of this nature, the intent and purpose will be rooted in advising the general public on conditions to avoid when obtaining a puppy, and should include the caveat to consider the source. A similar exposé by CBC's Fifth Estate concluded the broadcast by recommending that the CKC be contacted for information and guidance.

The advance statement below from the American Kennel Club indicates that, as a result of their having contacted the show's producer to ensure a balanced viewpoint, a "two-line statement" in support of responsible breeders will be incorporated into the show.

This program is syndicated throughout North America. Check local listings for broadcast times in your area.

AKC STATEMENT

Dear Fancier:

As you probably know, Oprah is airing a show tomorrow (Friday, 4/4) on the topic of "Puppy Mills". While the show was previously taped, we have been in touch with the producers about our desire for responsible breeders to be represented, and they have allowed us to submit a two-line statement, which they said will be incorporated into the show. They have also stated that there is no specific intention to malign purebred dogs or the AKC.

We will be watching the show along with you and, if warranted, we will respond publicly. However, it is our hope that Oprah's interest in animal welfare will help open up a dialogue on the issue and that AKC and the dog fancy will continue to be engaged.

Please direct all correspondence on this issue to communications@akc.org. 

Thank you!

AKC Communications