Thank You Letter to the Fancy (Thursday, August 12, 2004) 

Dear Members of the Fancy:

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for all the wonderful work you did to defeat the proposed cropping ban in California. Your efforts, your voice, your commitment to fighting this battle made the difference, and we know we would not have won this challenge without you.

There is indeed strength in numbers and the purebred dog fancy demonstrated just how strong it could be in California. Through your actions, we have set a precedent; we can accomplish great things when we work together. We have seen firsthand that presenting a united stand results in a positive outcome.

We wish to express special thanks to those among you who played leadership roles in organizing the opposition efforts. Thank you to Dr. Anthony DiNardo, Pamela DeHetre and Jeff Helsden and other members of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America for their work in organizing a grassroots campaign among parent clubs of cropped breeds. These individuals were also instrumental in establishing a fundraising drive that secured two lobbyists who worked directly with California legislators on our behalf. We would also like to thank John Connolly and the American Boxer Club for their efforts to raise awareness as well as raise funds. Our thanks also to Jerry Burge of the San Francisco Bay Scottish Terrier Club, the California Federation of Dog Clubs, the Animal Council, Peter Piusz and the members of the ad hoc Delegates' Committee on Cropping and Docking for their commitment to the issue, and the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) Trust for their many action alerts and work with legislators.

We know there will be future legislative proposals that threaten the rights of responsible dog owners, but we also know that we have strong, dedicated fanciers such as yourself who will work with us to ensure that those efforts do not succeed. Working as a team, we will be able to enjoy our dogs and our sport for many years to come.

Sincerely,

Ronald H. Menaker
Chairman of the Board

Dennis B. Sprung
President and CEO