AWSC National Specialty - Emergency Planning

From: Art Heun

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. As with last year our plan begins with each attending member’s personal preparation. 

Start planning now:

• Consult with your veterinarian regarding immunizations needed for Wyoming and states you might be visiting en route. Routine immunizations can be updated as well according to your own vaccination schedule.
• 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.   
• For travel and hunting flat collars with identification name plates (rather than tags) are preferable. Remember to include permanent identification numbers.  
• Put together a travel emergency kit for both humans and dogs.
• 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.

On the road? Remember:

• Dog(s) wear identification at all times.
• Crate labels are in place.
• A leash is on or close to each crate. Kennel (slip) leads can be applied quickly.
• Food and water is labeled and easy to find.

Additional information will be available at the host hotel and show/hunt test sites. If you have CPR, EMT, Disaster Triage, Canine First Aid, or similar training or experience and are willing to volunteer at national, please contact me at aheun@comcast.net.