My visit to the Westminster Dog Show!

Hi guys! Last month I went to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City to learn more about dogs and even cats! I was even considered a special guest and an Honorary Chair for the event!

Our day started with "Meet the Breeds" which was really fun. There were over 100 dog breeds! We visited booths about each breed and got to meet the dogs themselves. We even got to meet some cat breeds! My favorite breed I met was the Siberian Husky. What is your favorite breed of dog? Email me at CKGJessica@KidGovernor.org to tell me!

Me and a Siberian Husky, my favorite breed of dog!

I learned so much about dogs and cats, especially that there is a lot to being a responsible pet owner. As an Honorary Chair, I was asked to sign the American Kennel Club's "Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise." By signing, I - and other visiting legislators and government officials, promised:

• I will never overlook my responsibilities for this living being and recognize that my dog's welfare is totally dependent on me.
• I will always provide fresh water and quality food for my dog.
• I will socialize my dog via exposure to new people, places and other dogs.
• I will take pride in my dog's appearance with regular grooming.
• I will recognize the necessity of basic training by teaching my dog to reliably sit, stay and come when called.
• I will take my dog to the vet regularly and keep all vaccinations current.
• I will pick-up and properly dispose of my dog's waste. 
• I will make sure my dog is regarded as an AKC Canine Good Citizen® by being aware of my responsibilities to my neighbors and to the community.
• I will ensure that the proper amount of exercise and mental stimulation appropriate for my dog's age, breed and energy level is provided.
• I will ensure that my dog has some form of identification (which may include collar tags, tattoo or microchip ID.) 
• I will adhere to local leash laws.

Signing the "Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise."

I am now in the process of researching pet pledges and creating my own Responsible Pet Owner Pledge. Check back in the coming weeks for a post about my Pledge!

After "Meet the Breeds" we watched the agility competitions. That is where the dogs do all sorts of jumps and runs and go through obstacles. It was so cool to see them.

A dog competing in the agility competition.

I want to thank Mrs. Laurie Maulucci from the Connecticut Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Pet Owners who coordinated my visit, and the American Kennel Club for making it an amazing experience. Everyone was very friendly, welcoming, and supportive of my platform!

Meeting Dennis B. Sprung, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club.

I'd also like to thank the American Kennell Club for interviewing me for an article on their website. You can read the article HERE.

For more photos of my visit to the Westminster Dog Show, check out the Connecticut's Kid Governor Facebook and Twitter pages.

Talk to you soon!

- Jessica