Raleigh NC PAWS Holt and Cooke Debate for NCFDC Sept. 2005

There are many issues surrounding this event.  The cast of characters grows larger by the day.  There is much intrigue.  It was decided the only way to present what we perceive to be a developing story is to collect the pieces and information in one handy place.  We will continue to add to this section.  HEADlines subscribers will be notified as news comes in (free subscription here) and visitors should check back here or on the cover of TheDogPress.

AKC's efforts to promote acceptance of PAWS has led to the open and often contentious confrontation between the fancy, the member and licensed clubs, and club-Clubs such as the North Carolina Federation Of Dog Clubs.  There have been disagreements before but nothing of this magnitude, and nothing that has so divided the fancy.  No one likes to be told they "just don't understand" or that they are somehow not really "for" dogs and their welfare.  Dog people are highly intelligent and now, highly motivated to understand the most serious threat to the WELLbred purebred ever confronted.  Our board, at risk of retribution, made the decision - Give the fancy the facts and let them decide. 

800 Pound Gorilla
Intriguing example of a circus affects our ability to gain objective information.  by great-grandson of an AKC Founding Father, one might say caring is "in the blood."

Dr. Holt Withdraws - Official Statement
Offers to do it some other time, with another presenter, and an honest broker, or in Dog News.  Outrageous insinuations re circus, fighting, threatening, lawsuits.

Exclusive Interview - William Pfeiffer
Raleigh KC Treasurer, Delegate for RKC to NCFDC, first to be interviewed in effort to unsnarl confusion surrounding the much-anticipated but cancelled debate.

Exclusive Interview - John Schoeneman
Vice Pres. and Event Coordinator, NCFDC on plans from "day one" and how hard the NC Federation worked to present a great program for the Delegates and the public.

Raleigh 2005 Holt vs Cooke Debate
Revealing details and background on how this important educational event arranged by the NC Federation of Dog Clubs didn't happen, well, not exactly.

Ms. Cooke Still Willing - Official Statement
Explains what transpired, repeats willingness to participate, questions unsigned emails, refutes reasons given for rescinding the event, etc.

Exclusive Interview - Bob Peters
President of NCFDC, Dog Show Super, Pro-Paws but wanted information, agreed to debate format but says then things changed and the Federation blew it, not Dr. Holt.

NCFDC Clubs Vote To Oppose PAWS
After objection by President overturned, official position set by overwhelming majority. Secretary's Report 9/4/05 NC Federation Of Dog Clubs Meeting in Raleigh.