October 30, 2009

NEW YORK -- Hundreds of dogs and cats gathered under one roof, and the only fighting was for an adoring crowd's attention. That was the scene on October 17 and 18 at the first annual Meet The Breeds convention, which was co-sponsored by the American Kennel Club and the Cat Fanciers' Association.

"We have young dogs here, adult dogs here, we have some of the top champions of the last decade," said AKC President Dennis Sprung. "We have a jam packed house. Thirty five thousand people are here today being educated about pet ownership, about the right dog or cat for their lifestyle."

The event took place at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, and for many pet lovers, this was a first, and possibly only, opportunity to get a first-hand, close-up look at some less common breeds of dogs and cats. Animals like Giant Schnauzers, Leonbergers, Ibizan Hounds or Japanese bob tails, Maine Coons, Ocicats: they were all present and accounted for, and enjoying nothing less than two days of coddling.

"There are a lot of breeds that people are very familiar with, and then there are breeds that just are not as common," said Sprung. "Nonetheless, they make fabulous pets."

Throughout the showroom floor, booths provided crash courses in each breed, showcasing not only the animals' personalities, but also their cultural and geographic origins. Sprung says it's important for prospective owners to have this kind of information.

"You want to know what the dog was bred for, because that's how the dog will continue to act," he explained. "We have breeds that are in the herding group, and if your children are in the back yard, and the dogs go into the back yard, they're going to herd the children right back. The dogs do it instinctively."

Convention goers were also treated to feats of canine skill, including demonstrations of Frisbee catching, canine agility, and even police dog training exercises. Grooming tips and pet product information was also on hand.

Conventions are known for the celebrity appearances, and Meet the Breeds was no different. Of course, these famous faces also had four feet. One of the most popular was a bulldog named Munch, who provides the face for Iams Pet Food's "I'm Beautiful on the Inside" ad campaign. His turn around the demonstration floor brought rousing applause from his numerous fans.

"People are definitely recognizing him," says his owner Dierdre TK. "He is very social and he loves people, and I think it makes his life a lot happier."

Happy pets, happy people: By those standards, Meet The Breeds was a resounding success.

Zootoo Pet News Correspondent Brian Stillman and Editor Robin Wallace contributed to this report.

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