The Paper Cities Kennel Club (PCKC) will hold its annual AKC licensed All-Breed Dog Shows and Obedience/Rally Trials this weekend, Sept. 7 and 8, 2024, at the Merrill Area Recreation Complex (MARC) from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The public is invited, and the event is free to attend, but there is a $5 parking fee. Families are asked to keep strollers outside.
More than 100 different breeds of dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) will be showcased, with approximately 600 entries each day. The dogs and their owners or handlers come from all over the country to compete in the weekend events, which include Conformation, Junior Showmanship, National Owner-Handled Series, Obedience, and Rally Obedience.
There will also be a Four to Six-Month Beginner Puppy Competition on Saturday.
A Pee Wee Class Special Attraction will be held Sunday, around the lunch hour, where children ages 5-9 years can show their dog or someone else’s dog in a ring with their parent/guardian/responsible adult. This event is a huge crowd pleaser and PCKC is thrilled to offer it!
New this year, AKC Fast CAT tests will be hosted on the show site. Fast CAT, which stands for Coursing Ability Test (FCAT) is a relatively new sport through AKC. Dogs run one at a time, over a timed 100-yard dash, using a mechanical system chasing a lure or squawker, and get AKC titles based upon points earned. Points are earned based upon a combination of miles per hour and handicap. Handicap is based upon the height of the dog.
FCAT provides a terrific opportunity to introduce new participants to the world of AKC sports, as it’s one of the few events where all that is needed to compete is a dog’s natural instincts. Dogs that love to run, or run and chase bunnies or other things, love Fast CAT. It’s easy for handlers, as no experience/training is needed. The Fast CAT track is completely fenced in, so people don’t need to worry about their dog being able to run away. PCKC is excited to be working with their Lure Operator who is coming from Illinois. People can enter the tests “day-of,” and there will be Fun Runs on Saturday after 2 p.m. Fun Runs cost $5/run, and it’s a great time to come and try it with your dog!
Conformation events are the signature events of the AKC. They concentrate on the distinctive features of purebred dogs and help to preserve those characteristics. Traditional Obedience events consist of formal exercises in which accuracy and precision are essential, but the natural movement of the handler and the willingness and enjoyment of the dog are still very important.
Rally, in which signs direct dog and handler through an obedience course, offers an experience that is fun and energizing. Rally was designed with the traditional pet owner in mind and as a foundation for more advanced training.
A raffle will also be held on Saturday and is open to exhibitors, spectators, and the public. Typically there are about 80 baskets (some for the dogs and some for the people). Each year the club donates a portion of the proceeds from the raffle to a very worthwhile cause, and this year, their recipient is the Marathon County Sheriff’s Department “Paws Enforcing Laws” Program. “Paws Enforcing Laws” is completely self-funded — no tax dollars are used. They depend on the generosity of communities to help support their program. The raffle proceeds will go toward vet bills, equipment needs such as heat alarms systems for the squads, kennels for the vehicles, vests, and to help provide the ability to plan and prepare for the replacement of K9’s when they retire. It is a source of great pride and honor that they do this completely through fundraising and donations. The balance of raffle proceeds go to support the club’s Canine Ambassador Program and its Bite Prevention Program, which teaches kids (second graders, mostly) how to stay safe around dogs.
The event is a great spectator event and the show is a fun activity for families. It is also a great venue to talk to breed experts about topics such as training, grooming, and the right breed for your lifestyle and a great starting point to finding a responsible breeder.
Food vendors and a professional photographer will also be on site.
For more information, go to: papercitieskc.org