Decatur Alabama Kennel Club

The Decatur Alabama Kennel Club is a non-profit organization located in Decatur, Alabama. It was established in 1984 to provide a platform for dog enthusiasts to participate in various dog-related activities and promote education about dogs within the community.

History

Founded in 1984, the club's primary goal is the advancement of purebred dogs. However, its activities also extend to mixed breeds, offering a wide range of dog-related events and services. The club was licensed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1993 to host conformation shows and obedience trials. In 2002, it gained additional licensing from the AKC to conduct agility trials.

Activities

The Decatur Alabama Kennel Club offers various events and training opportunities, including:

• Conformation Shows: These events evaluate the breeding stock of purebred dogs based on their structure and appearance, aiming to assess their potential for producing quality offspring.
• Obedience Trials: These showcase dogs' ability to behave well in different environments and are judged on precision and teamwork between the dog and handler.
• Agility Trials: An obstacle course where dogs demonstrate their speed, agility, and obedience, strengthening the bond between the dog and handler.
• Rally Events: A companion sport to obedience that provides an introduction to AKC events and offers a more flexible, team-oriented competition format.
• Community Services: The club aims to educate the public about dog care and training through its sanctioned performances and classes.

Objectives

The Decatur Alabama Kennel Club focuses on promoting animal welfare and educating the public about dog care and training. It strives to provide a welcoming environment for all dog owners, regardless of the breed or type of dog they own.

Membership and Meetings

The club is open to anyone interested in dogs and dog activities. Regular meetings are held monthly, providing a forum for members to discuss dog-related topics and plan events. Visitors are always welcome to attend these meetings.

Educational Initiatives

Besides organizing events, the club offers training classes for the public to learn about dog handling, obedience, and other dog-related skills. Its educational initiatives are designed to foster responsible dog ownership and to encourage good canine behavior in both domestic and public settings.

Facilities

In 2003, the club completed construction of a 6,000 square foot facility, which serves as a venue for its events and training classes. This facility supports the club's mission by providing a dedicated space for dog owners to engage in various dog-related activities.