HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 99-4725, by Representative Carrell

     WHEREAS, Dogs play an important role in the lives of many Washington state citizens by serving as companions and assistance animals; and

     WHEREAS, Over five hundred thousand Washington state households own dogs; and

     WHEREAS, Thousands of Washington state citizens are the victims of dog bites each year so there is a need for dogs to be well-behaved community members; and

     WHEREAS, It is recognized that the "bad dog" problem is most often an irresponsible owner problem; and

     WHEREAS, Trained dogs rarely end up in shelters because they are easier to live with and because of the strong human-pet bond which develops during training; and

     WHEREAS, Responsible pet ownership where owners properly contain, socialize, and train their dogs results in fewer stray dogs and fewer dog bites and is encouraged in this state; and

     WHEREAS, The American Kennel Club (AKC) "Canine Good Citizen" concept was developed to teach pet owners to take responsible care of their animals and that dogs should exhibit functional "good citizen" behaviors in the presence of other people and animals, in both the home and the community; and

     WHEREAS, AKC "Canine Good Citizen" programs identify and officially recognize those dogs who behave as members in good standing within the community; and

     WHEREAS, The AKC "Canine Good Citizen" test is used as a screening tool by therapy, service, and search dog organizations; and

     WHEREAS, Eleven states including Alaska, Florida, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania have state-wide resolutions endorsing the AKC "Canine Good Citizen" test;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the legislature of the state of Washington endorse the AKC "Canine Good Citizen" program as a means of teaching owners responsible pet ownership, and as a means of teaching dogs "canine good citizen" behaviors for the community; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the legislature of the state of Washington encourage dog training programs and education for community pet owners that emphasize the importance of properly containing and controlling dogs, and providing training which results in canine good manners in public situations.

                           --- END ---