From Safety Chair: Jean Wright

     The American Kennel Club requires member clubs holding events to have a plan in place for handling emergent situations. Specifically we are required to notify authorities, to plan with local resources, to have a CPR certified person on duty at all events, and to have both a first aid kit and a working cell phone available.

     Our plan begins with each attending member’s personal preparation

START PLANNING NOW

     o Consult with your veterinarian regarding immunizations needed for Oregon and Washington as well as states you might be visiting en route. Routine immunizations can be updated as well according to your own vaccination schedule. Some heart worm cases have been identified in both states.

     o AKC recommends that all attending dogs have permanent identification (microchip or tattoo). Additionally crates should have – clearly visible – identification information including medical information if applicable.

     o For travel and field events flat collars with identification name plates (rather than tags) are preferable. Remember to include permanent identification numbers.

     o Put together a travel emergency kit for both humans and dogs.

     o If you are traveling from outside the event area, make sure you have maps that show back roads in case main highways are not accessible due to road work or emergency evacuation.

ON THE ROAD REMEMBER

     o Dog(s) wear identification at all times.

     o Crate labels are in place.

     o A leash is on or close to each crate. Kennel (slip) leads can be applied quickly.

     o Food and water is labeled and easy to find.

AT THE SPECIALITIES

     o Dog(s) wear identification at all times.

     o Crate labels are in place and clearly visible.

     o Local veterinary information will be available at show and field event sites.

Additional local information will be available at the host hotel and show/test sites