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Tickets are available online for pet lovers who want to learn about and have the chance to pet and play with rare cats and dogs at Meet the Breeds on October 20 and 21 2012 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City.

11931798 plush sweet british shorthairs will be at meet the breedsPlush, sweet British Shorthairs will be at Meet the BreedsJuly 23, 2012 - PRLog -- NEW YORK, NY – Ever meet a Xoloitzcuintli? How about a Sphynx without having to go to Egypt? This October, New Yorkers will get the opportunity to meet these rare dog and cat breeds face-to-face along with more than 200 other breeds of dogs and cats when the American Kennel Club (AKC) and The International Cat Association (TICA) host the fourth annual AKC Meet the Breeds event at the Javits Center October 20 & 21. Tickets are on sale now at www.MeetTheBreeds.com.

Sponsored by leading pet healthcare insurance provider, PetPartners, Inc., AKC Meet the Breeds is an unique event that gives the public the opportunity to meet and interact with amazing dogs and cats of all shapes and sizes. Attendees can also approach experienced breeders and owners with questions about how these dogs and cats can be expected to act as family pets. .

“Educating the public about the predictable qualities and needs of each breed is the major motivating factor for holding this event each year,” said AKC Meet the Breeds Spokesperson Gina DiNardo. “Too, many people acquire pets the same way they go on blind dates, with not a lot of information and a lot of foggy hopes. AKC Meet the Breeds allows individuals to literally ‘meet’ hundreds of dogs and cats in one afternoon to help them better learn which breed should become a lifelong member of their family.”

“At AKC Meet the Breeds New Yorkers can step into the jungle and play with a Bengal cat or pet a 200 pound Mastiff dog in a Medieval castle, and when you’re done meeting the breed, you can talk with experts about what owning that pet is really like,” said TICA President Vickie Fisher.

In addition to meeting more than 200 dog and cat breeds, AKC Meet the Breeds will feature the following:

  • Ongoing demonstrations will allow spectators to watch dogs and cats race against the clock in the fast-paced sport of agility, Frisbee Disc Dogs and reenactments of U.S. Customs and Border Protection searches, so you know exactly why that Beagle is sniffing your luggage at the airport.
  • Kitty CAToure – Fashion week will never be the same after cats take center stage to show off the hottest trends by Meow-Wear fashion designer Carla Reiss.
  • Top experts in every pet-related field including training, grooming, nutrition and first aid. Get to know some of the cat and dog specialists who will be available to answer your questions and help you identify the best breed for your lifestyle.
  • More than 100 vendors selling every imaginable dog and cat product just in time to spoil your favorite Fido or Fluffy before the holidays.
  • Fun activities for kids and pet-related giveaways at vendor booths.

Get your tickets now at www.MeetTheBreeds.com. Advanced tickets are $15 adult/$10 kids.

See what you missed last year and make your plans for this year’s event by viewing coverage from last year’s AKC Meet the Breeds at http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/2011photos.html.

Get social with the AKC and TICA! Join AKC on Facebook and Twitter and TICA on Facebook.com/TheInternationalCatAssociation and Twitter @TICAcats.

About AKC Meet the Breeds – From Afghan Hounds to the Turkish Van, AKC Meet the Breeds® showcases 160 American Kennel Club® (AKC) registered dog breeds and this year will feature 50 cat breeds registered by The International Cat Association (TICA) in booths individually decorated to depict each breed’s country of origin, historical purpose/function, and attributes as a family pet. This family-friendly event is an opportunity for potential pet owners to interact with responsible breeders and play with dogs and cats while educating themselves about responsible pet ownership and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle. AKC Meet the Breeds is proudly presented by PetPartners, Inc., a leading pet healthcare provider, and will feature more than 160,000 square feet of dog and cat festivities including ongoing demonstration rings – featuring law enforcement K-9’s, dog agility, grooming– and more than 100 vendor booths that offer every imaginable product for pets and their owners. Event sponsors include The Hartford Financial Services, Inc., Pet Brands, Inc., Purina® Pro Plan®, Motel 6, K9 Advantix II, Felidae®, Sturdi Products, BH Pet LLC, and TimberTech. For more information visit www.MeetTheBreeds.com.

The American Kennel Club, founded in 1884, is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 20,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.

The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 54 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun...and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org

The International Cat Association (TICA) announced the reelection of its President, Vickie Fisher and its Vice President, Bobbie Tullo for new terms which start January 1, 2012.

11766548 vickie fisher tica president and all breed judgeVickie Fisher, TICA President and All Breed JudgeJan. 8, 2012 - PRLog -- The International Cat Association (TICA), the world’s largest genetic registry of purebred cats, announced that Vickie Fisher was re-elected as the organization’s President and Board of Directors Chair. TICA also announced that Bobbie Tullo has been reelected as the organization’s Vice President. Both Fisher and Tullo will serve a new three-year term starting January 1, 2012.

“I’m thrilled that TICA’s members have reelected both myself and Bobbie Tullo to continue to help TICA expand its presence around the world, and to have the chance to work with and educate local communities and youth groups on responsible pet ownership and cat welfare,” said Fisher. “During the past two years, we’ve experienced the wonderful world of TICA and have had the honor to get to know not only the fabulous felines around the world but share in the fun and friendships that our members and exhibitors enjoy in every country where TICA has members and clubs that host shows!”

Fisher and Tullo were elected in 2009 and served two years as President and Vice President respectively. Fisher has also previously served as TICA’s Southwest Regional Director and a member of its Board of Directors. She is an Approved All Breed judge for TICA. Fisher is the President and Founder of the Albuquerque Kennel Kompadres (AKK), a nonprofit "friends of" the City Animal Shelters; an instructor for the City of Albuquerque’s Animal Shelter’s School Outreach Program; and a Director of a New Mexico healthcare organization. Previously Fisher was the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Albuquerque. A Certified Public Accountant, Fisher has held several executive financial positions including Cabinet Secretary for Taxation for the State of New Mexico.

Tullo, a licensed and approved TICA All Breed judge since 1982, is a charter life member and helped put on the first TICA cat show. She also has been TICA’s Judging Administrator and a member of its Rules Committee since 1997. Tullo is the founder of the Chausie Rescue and several chartered cat clubs. She is a small business owner of an antique emporium in Pine, Arizona



Organized during 1979, The International Cat Association (TICA) is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 55 breeds of cats. No matter where you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun..and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org. Cat lovers can also learn about cat care, breeds, nutrition, psychology and more at TICA University http://www.ticau.com

The American Kennel Club and The International Cat Association educate and entertain tens of thousands of dog and cat lovers at the third annual AKC Meet the Breeds in New York City.

11746394 kids loved playing bingo about cats and dogsKids loved playing bingo about cats and dogsDec. 10, 2011 - PRLog -- From cats in costumes to a recreated scene from the Wizard of Oz, the American Kennel Club® (AKC) and The International Cat Association (TICA) hosted record-breaking crowds at the third annual AKC Meet the Breeds® event – the largest showcase of dogs and cats in the world.

Presented by PetPartners, Inc., your partner in pet health care, more than 1,000 dogs and cats, representing 210 breeds, filled the Javits Center on November 19 & 20. From the more common Labrador Retriever and Sphynx cat to some of the rarer breeds, such as the Pumi and Toyger cat, dog and cat lovers were treated to interactive, decorative displays and allowed to meet and play with each breed while learning directly from the experts the responsibilities of owning that pet.

“The AKC was pleased to join forces with TICA to once again offer the public this opportunity to meet and play with dogs and cats, including some of the rarest breeds most people may have only read about or have seen on television,” said AKC Assistant Vice President Gina DiNardo. “This entertaining and educational event helped teach children of all ages – including local Girl Scout and Brownie troops – about which dog or cat could become a lifelong member of their family and how to be a responsible owner.”

“TICA was proud to be a part of AKC Meet the Breeds and give kids the opportunity to walk through the Bengal breed booth decorated as the jungle, and pet the loveable Toyger cat that looks like a wild Tiger, while their parents learned about responsible pet ownership and the importance of learning the characteristics of each breed before you add it to your family,” said TICA President Vickie Fisher.

“I want to thank all of our sponsors, vendors and especially the wonderful volunteers from participating AKC Parent clubs and TICA that represented the more than 200 breed booths and performed in the demonstration rings,” said AKC President and CEO Dennis B. Sprung. “Your help and dedication is what makes us able to bring this responsible pet extravaganza to life and educate the public about what breed is best for their lifestyle.”

This year’s Best Booth Awards were sponsored by ShowSight Magazine, with the Saluki booth winning for the Hound Group and taking Best Booth in Show for their recreation of an ancient Egyptian setting with booth volunteers dressed in traditional Arabian clothing. The Labrador Retriever booth took best in the Sporting Group, the Mastiff won best in the Working Group, the Cairn Terrier won best in the Terrier Group, the Chinese Crested took best in the Toy Group, the American Eskimo Dog won for the Non-Sporting Group, the German Shepherd Dog won for the Herding Group, and the Cirneco Dell’Etna won for the Miscellaneous Class/FSS breeds.

Spectators enjoyed more than 15 entertaining demonstrations including the popular Kitty CATure feline fashion show featuring Meow Wear designer Carla Reiss’ custom creations, the U.S. Customs & Border Protection team and their K-9s, and dog and cat agility where people got the chance to watch the dogs and cats race against the clock through weave polls, over jumps and through tunnels.

More than 100 vendor booths also offered every imaginable pet product and service including Paramount Chemical Specialties nontoxic-stain and health products, The Hartford auto and home insurance for responsible dog owners, LG Electronics USA vacuums for pet owners, American Pet Product Association promotion of the benefits of pet ownership and the human-animal bond and Motel 6/Studio 6 offering pet friendly lodging with a 10% AKC discount. These are some of the many ways of giving owners the opportunity to bring a little something back to share with their four legged friends just in time for the holidays.

View photo coverage at www.MeetTheBreeds.com. Additional photos and video can be found on AKC’s social media pages including Facebook, You Tube and Twitter.

About AKC Meet the Breeds

From Afghan Hounds to the Turkish Van, AKC Meet the Breeds® showcases 160 American Kennel Club® (AKC) registered dog breeds and this year will feature 50 cat breeds registered by The International Cat Association (TICA) in booths individually decorated to depict each breed’s country of origin, historical purpose/function, and attributes as a family pet. This family-friendly event is an opportunity for potential pet owners to interact with responsible breeders and play with dogs and cats while educating themselves about responsible pet ownership and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle. AKC Meet the Breeds is proudly presented by PetPartners, Inc., a leading pet healthcare provider, and will feature more than 160,000 square feet of dog and cat festivities including ongoing demonstration rings – featuring law enforcement K-9’s, dog agility, grooming– and more than 100 vendor booths that offer every imaginable product for pets and their owners. Event sponsors include Pet Partners, Inc., The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., P&G Pet Care, Iams, Pet Brands, Inc., Motel 6, Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), Hill’s® Science Diet® Small & Toy Breed dog food, LG Electronics USA, Paramount Chemical Specialties, Inc., American Pet Products Association, Canine Companies, Inc., Toyota’s Pet Safety Initiative, amNewYork, Baker Institute for Animal Health at Cornell University and ShowSight. For more information visit www.meetthebreeds.com.

The American Kennel Club, founded in 1884, is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 20,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.


The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 54 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun... and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org.

Ruddy ticked tabby Abyssinian from Europe takes title as the Best Cat for The International Cat Association’s 2010-2011 show season.

11645753 tica 2010 2011 international winner best catTICA 2010-2011 International Winner Best CatSept. 3, 2011 - PRLog -- Harlingen, Texas – Abyfelis Ermes has won the title of Best Cat for The International Cat Association’s (TICA) 2010-2011 show season. TICA is the world’s largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, and the Abyssinian is one of fifty five breeds recognized by the organization for championship titles and end-of-season awards.

The Ruddy Ticked Tabby earned his International Winner title by accumulating more than 13,000 points during the show season which ran from May 1, 2010 through April 30, 2011. Supreme Grand Champion Abyfelis Ermes, bred and owned by Patricia Jean-Jean from France, was also Best Cat for TICA’s Southern Europe Region.

Other international winners for the 2010-2011 show season were:
• Best Kitten – IW Mtnest Prince William – Brown(black) Classic Tabby/White Maine Coon – Bred and owned by Judy and David Bernbaum
• Best Alter – IW SGCA Grandbois Etiennne Guittard – Chartreux – Bred by Nancy Dionne and Carole McFadden – Owned by N Dionne, D Steele and C McFadden
• Best Household Pet – IW SGM Awwsome Amber of Careycats – Brown (black) Mackerel Torbie/White – Owner Tanya Carey
• Best Household Pet Kitten – Kenny – Red Ticked Tabby – Owned by Linda Swierczynski

“Congratulations to our Best International Winners for the 2010-2011 show season,” said Vickie Fisher, President of TICA. “These beautiful cats are fine examples of their breeds, and the cats that TICA’s members and exhibitors breed and show at our events held every year, around the world.”

Past International Winners will be at AKC Meet the Breeds® co-hosted by TICA and the American Kennel Club (AKC®) on November 19-20 2011 in New York City. Representatives of these breeds and over fifty more will be available to meet in person. There will also be over 100 breeds of dogs in addition to dog and cat agility, breed presentations and more. To learn more visit http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/

About The International Cat Association

The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 55 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun...and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org.

About AKC Meet the Breeds

From Afghan Hounds to the Turkish Van, AKC Meet the Breeds® showcases 160 American Kennel Club® (AKC) registered dog breeds and this year will feature 50 cat breeds registered by The International Cat Association (TICA) in booths individually decorated to depict each breed’s country of origin, historical purpose/function, and attributes as a family pet. This family-friendly event is an opportunity for potential pet owners to interact with responsible breeders and play with dogs and cats while educating themselves about responsible pet ownership and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle. AKC Meet the Breeds is proudly presented by PetPartners, Inc., a leading pet healthcare provider, and will feature more than 160,000 square feet of dog and cat festivities including ongoing demonstration rings – featuring law enforcement K-9’s, dog agility, grooming– and more than 100 vendor booths that offer every imaginable product for pets and their owners. Event sponsors include The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., P&G Pet Care, Iams, Pet Brands, Inc., Motel 6, Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed dog food, LG Electronics USA, Paramount Chemical Specialties, Inc. and Canine Companies, Inc. For more information visit http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/


The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 54 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun...and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org.

Tickets to World’s Largest Gathering of Dogs and Cats On Sale Now at www.MeetTheBreeds.com

11617122 nov 19 20 2011 javits center new york city nyNov 19 & 20, 2011 Javits Center, New York City, NYAug. 8, 2011 - PRLog -- New York, NY – From cats in costume to a recreated scene from the Wizard of Oz, New York City will go to the dogs,,, and cats this November when the American Kennel Club® (AKC) returns to the Javits Center on November 19th and 20th to host the third annual AKC Meet the Breeds® event – the largest showcase of dogs and cats in the world. Special advance ticket offers are available online now at http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/.

Sponsored by PetPartners, Inc. a leading pet healthcare insurance provider, AKC Meet the Breeds will offer pet lovers the unique opportunity to see, touch and play with thousands of dogs and cats, including many breeds most people have only read about. This family-fun event is an opportunity for pet lovers to interact with responsible breeders while educating themselves about choosing and caring for the right pet for their lifestyle.

This year the AKC will join forces with The International Cat Association (TICA), the world’s largest genetic registry of purebred cats, to showcase even more cat breeds. The event has also been expanded to 160,000 square feet of dog and cat festivities, including ongoing demonstrations featuring a Kitty CATure fashion show, Frisbee Disc Dogs, law enforcement K-9s, dog and cat agility, grooming and training advice, and more than 100 vendor booths selling every imaginable dog and cat item just in time for the holidays.

“From dreadlock-covered Komondor dogs to hairless Xolo puppies, AKC Meet the Breeds is a great opportunity for everyone to literally ‘meet’ and learn more about the vast range of pets that share our lives,” said AKC Meet the Breeds Spokesperson and AKC Assistant Vice President Gina DiNardo.

"Cat lovers will have their first chance to see the world’s favorite breed of cat, the Bengal, and then get the chance to see kittens and cats of all different breeds compete for the fastest times in the cat agility ring,” said TICA President Vickie Fisher.

Tickets are on sale now at http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/. Each ticket will offer access to:

• More than 210 dog and cat breed booths individually decorated that allow doggie devotees and feline fans to interact with dogs, cats, puppies and kittens and learn about their history and unique attributes directly from the experts.
• Top experts in every pet-related field including breeding, training, grooming, nutrition and first aid. Get to know some of the cat and dog specialists who will be available to answer your questions and help you identify the best breed for you.
• More than 100 vendors selling unique dog and cat items so you can spoil your favorite Fido or Fluffy. Every imaginable canine and feline product will be available just in time for your holiday shopping.
• Demonstration rings allow attendees to watch dogs race against the clock in the fast-paced sport of Agility, see dogs show off their Rally, Flyball, and Frisbee skills, observe simulated hunting tests and view law enforcement K9s in action.
• Games and giveaways at vendor booths including free samples and activities for kids.

View coverage of last year’s AKC Meet the Breeds at http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/photos.html.

Get social with the AKC and TICA! Join AKC on Facebook and Twitter and TICA on Facebook and Twitter.

About AKC Meet the Breeds – From Afghan Hounds to the Turkish Van, AKC Meet the Breeds® showcases 160 American Kennel Club® (AKC) registered dog breeds and this year will feature 50 cat breeds registered by The International Cat Association (TICA) in booths individually decorated to depict each breed’s country of origin, historical purpose/function, and attributes as a family pet. This family-friendly event is an opportunity for potential pet owners to interact with responsible breeders and play with dogs and cats while educating themselves about responsible pet ownership and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle. AKC Meet the Breeds is proudly presented by PetPartners, Inc., a leading pet healthcare provider, and will feature more than 160,000 square feet of dog and cat festivities including ongoing demonstration rings – featuring law enforcement K-9’s, dog agility, grooming– and more than 100 vendor booths that offer every imaginable product for pets and their owners. Event sponsors include The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., P&G Pet Care, Eukanuba, Pet Brands, Inc., Motel 6 and Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed dog food, Paramount Chemical Specialties, Inc., and Canine Companies. For more information visit http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/.

The American Kennel Club, founded in 1884, is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 20,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit http://www.akc.org.


The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 54 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun...and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org.

The International Cat Association (TICA) announced its partnership with The Professional Cat Groomers Association (PCGAA) to promote cat grooming and care around the world.

11610432 professional cat groomers understand cat careProfessional cat groomers understand cat careAug. 2, 2011 - PRLog -- Harlingen, Texas – The International Cat Association (TICA), the world’s largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, announced its partnership with The Professional Cat Groomers Association of America (PCGAA) which offers cat grooming educational courses to professionals who want to increase the cat segment of their business.

PCGAA has students and members around the world, and offers continued education and advanced certification courses for professional groomers.

“We’re thrilled to partner with PCGAA as they strive to give care through proper grooming of cats no matter their breeding, age or coat length,” said Vickie Fisher, President of TICA. “Our partnership allows us to reach out to even more cat owners worldwide, and help them understand the importance of grooming their cats properly to ensure a happy and healthy life.”

“PCGAA chose to partner with TICA because of their focus on educating communities and cat owners on the care and welfare of cats, pedigreed or not,” said Kimberly Raisanen, President and Founder of PCGAA. “So many cat owners aren’t aware of the certified cat groomers in their area, who are trained to work with cats and understand the difference in handling and grooming a cat versus a dog which ensures a more pleasurable experience for their cats.”

About The Professional Cat Groomers Association of America

The Professional Cat Groomers Association of America (PCGAA) is an international organization that was formed exclusively by certified Cat Grooming Professionals who have extensive experience, continued education, advanced certification and business savvy. The PCGAA has implemented a "whole" approach to the grooming of cats, and advises, educates and mentors those groomers who wish to add or increase the cat grooming segment of the grooming. To learn more about PCGAA visit http://www.professionalcatgroomers.com


About The International Cat Association

The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 54 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun...and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org.

Many breeds of dogs registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and breeds of cats registered by The International Cat Association (TICA) are officially “state dogs” or “state cats”.

11564939 american shorthair is unofficially jersey catAmerican Shorthair is unofficially a "Jersey cat"June 29, 2011 - PRLog -- From Alaska all the way to Wisconsin, many states show off their love of dogs and cats by giving them official status. To celebrate the Fourth of July and the New York City return of AKC Meet the Breeds® – the world’s largest gathering of cats and dogs – the American Kennel Club (AKC®) and The International Cat Association (TICA) take a look at some of these official dogs and cats, and what makes them so special.

State Dogs

Maryland: Maryland was the first state to honor a dog with an official title. In 1964, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever became the state dog of Maryland. The breed is popular with hunters for its ability to retrieve birds in water such as geese and ducks. They are happy, intelligent, and courageous dogs that love water. They do best with active, outdoor-loving families.

Alaska: The newest dog to receive an official title is the Alaskan Malamute. Named the state dog of Alaska in 2010 after young students petitioned for it, the Alaskan Malamute is an American breed named after the Inuit tribe called the Mahlemuts that settled in Alaska. Historically, they were very valuable work dogs because they could carry heavy loads over long distances in the Arctic’s harsh environment. Today, Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate and friendly family pets.

Massachusetts: Truly an American dog, the Boston Terrier was the first purebred dog in the U.S. and was designated the state dog of Massachusetts in 1979. Boston Terriers are lively and extremely intelligent. They have a gentle disposition and make wonderful pets. They require a moderate amount of exercise, are simple to groom, and easy to train.

South Carolina: The Boykin Spaniel was named the state dog of South Carolina, the state where it originated, in 1985. Boykin Spaniels have a very cheerful and energetic personality. They are medium-sized, all-around hunting dogs. Because they were bred to work with hunters all day, they fit in best with an active family. The breed loves companionship and enjoys the company of kids and other dogs.

Virginia: The American Foxhound was designated the state dog of Virginia in 1966. One of the rarest of America’s native breeds, the American Foxhound was originally bred for fox hunting. They are easygoing dogs that get along well with children. They were bred to run, so American Foxhounds need exercise to keep them happy. Because they can be stubborn, persistence is needed when training.

Wisconsin: The citizens of Wisconsin named the American Water Spaniel their state dog in 1985. They are the only breed native to the state. They were originally bred as an all-around hunter that could retrieve from boats. While they still enjoy hunting today, they are also excellent family dogs. Since they are very energetic, they do require daily exercise, but they also love hanging out with their family. American Water Spaniels are friendly and eager to please and respond well to training.

Additional state dogs include:
Louisiana: Cathoula Leopard Dog
New Hampshire: Chinook
North Carolina: Plott
Pennsylvania: Great Dane
Texas: Blue Lacy

State Cats

Maine: The Maine Coon was named the state cat of Maine in 1985. America's native longhair, Maine Coons were well established over a century ago as a hardy breed of domestic cat, well equipped to survive the hostile New England winters. Maine Coon owners enjoy the breed's characteristic clown-like personality, affectionate nature, and willingness to “help” with any activity. They make excellent companions for large, active families that also enjoy living with dogs and other animals.

Maryland: Maryland named the Calico Cat their state cat in 2001. Its separate blocks of colors – orange, black, and white – are shared with the Baltimore oriole (State bird) and the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly (State insect). Calico is not a breed of cat, but an unusual coloring occurring across many breeds, including Domestic Short-hair, Maine Coon, Munchkin, British Shorthair, American Wirehair, Persian, and Manx. Virtually all calico cats are female.

Massachusetts: In 1988, the state of Massachusetts made the Tabby Cat official in response to the wishes of the state’s schoolchildren. Tabby cats are often mistakenly thought of as being a particular breed of cat, but it is the coat pattern which resembles the striping on a “tiger” cat that is known as “Tabby”. The tabby coat pattern is a gene carried by all breeds of domestic cats so it can occur in all short- and long-haired breeds even if it’s “masked” and cannot be seen.

In addition to the official state dogs/cats, last year the AKC polled Americans and uncovered the inner dogs and cats of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut based on the unique character and personality of each state. Here are AKC’s unofficial state dogs and cats:

New York City: The Dachshund, commonly known as a “hot dog,” won as the dog breed representing Brooklyn’s 95-year-old institution, Nathan’s Hot Dogs. The American Curl represented the Upper East Side’s affluent, high-society stereotype, as New York City’s cat breed.

New Jersey: The Yorkshire Terrier’s big personality in a small package represents New Jersey being the fourth smallest state in the nation with the most dense population. TheAmerican Shorthair represents the state’s misunderstood identity.

Connecticut: Golden Retrievers can adapt to many different living situations and are beautiful to look at, and they represent the fictional suburb of Stepford, Connecticut and its “Stepford Wives”. The oldest known cat breed, the Persian, represents Connecticut’s stereotype of the state known for having a large population of affluent families who have been wealthy for generations.

From the Afghan Hound to the Turkish Van, AKC Meet the Breeds is the world’s largest showcase of dogs and cats and offers pet lovers a unique opportunity to play with some of the country’s rarest dog and cat breeds while educating themselves about responsible pet ownership and choosing the right pet for their lifestyle. Presented by PetPartners, Inc., this family-friendly event will showcase 160 AKC registered dog breeds and 50 TICA registered cat breeds – in booths individually decorated to depict each breed’s country of origin, historical purpose/function, and attributes as a family pet – include fun animal demonstrations and more than 100 vendors selling unique dog and cat items. Go to www.MeetTheBreeds.com for more information.

Visit http://www.akc.org for more information on the state dog breeds and http://www.tica.org for the state cats, or meet them in person at Meet the Breeds November 19th and 20th at the Javits Center in New York City.

Tickets allow admittance for one day and can be purchased online at http://www.akc.org/meet_the_breeds/.

Get social with the AKC! Join us on Facebook and Twitter @akcdoglovers .


The International Cat Association, Inc. (TICA) was organized during 1979, is the world's largest genetic registry of pedigreed cats, largest registry of household pet cats and kittens, and one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows. TICA currently recognizes more than 54 breeds of cats. Wherever you are, you’re in TICA’s world. A world of fabulous felines…fun...and friendships. To learn more about TICA visit http://www.tica.org.

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