KENNEL CLUB CALLS FOR COAT TESTING VIEWS

The Kennel Club is requesting views both for and against its coat testing rule, which was adopted to help ensure that products are not used to modify or exaggerate a dog’s coat in the show ring.

Members failed to support a proposal, presented at the KC Annual General Meeting in May, that coat testing at dog shows should be banned, but instead opted to temporarily suspend coat testing to allow for a period of consultation. Views are now being sought from all interested parties.

Coat testing was adopted to help enforce the Kennel Club regulation – which remains in place – stating that those who show their dogs should not use products that alter the natural colour, texture and body of a dog’s coat. This is to ensure a level playing field in the show ring and that dogs are presented without exaggeration and undue modification.

Written views are now being sought from those who wish to support, object or suggest modifications to the coat testing procedure. The deadline for submissions is 7 July 2011. Please email sta@thekennelclub.org.uk

The Kennel Club will also be gathering information from overseas Kennel Clubs regarding their testing policies and procedures and will be meeting with its designated laboratory to review procedures. Further announcements about the consultation process will be made in due course but will, of course, include meetings with relevant clubs and councils.