Question of the Week

José Luis Payró

President of the Mexican Kennel Club

The Federacion Canofila Mexico would like to extend our best wishes to Mr. Dennis Sprung, AKC president, more than a friend of Mexico, who has shared 22 years of AKC memories.

Dennis has always helped the Mexican breeders, handlers and judges, and been an ally for our sport and for dogs around the world. He has been the one we always go to when questions arise, and he has always helped the dog owners in Mexico and Latin America when help was requested. His departure from the AKC is marked by our sadness in Mexico and South America. But we know that his work, love, reputation and the goodwill he has shown to every one of us in Mexico and everywhere in the world as the fantastic leader of our sport will continue to shine forever.

Thank you to Dog News, one of the best dog magazines in the U.S., for letting Mr. Dennis Sprung know how much we love him and that we will miss him.

Adam Bernardin

Chaplin, Connecticut

Dennis has been the only AKC president I've known since going out on my own. He has been a pleasure to work with over the past 20 years. From his kind words of support and encouragement, he's always been there for us to help when he could. I wish him the best in this next phase of his life, and I thank him for his service and dedication to the purebred dog. 

Gayle Bontecou

Clinton Corners, New York

Tequesta, Florida

In thinking about Dennis's abrupt departure from his presidency, it is absolutely absurd and ridiculous. How in the world could a devoted, committed and dedicated president of 22 years, who took care of so many in the sport, including the board members, be told to pack his bags and leave at the flip of a dime, with no reason offered?

Fortunately, the board might have learned a small but significant lesson in the support that is being shown to Dennis and his accomplishments. One only hopes that this maneuver by the board will not happen again. 

So many in the sport love Dennis and recognize his appreciation for all areas of the sport and what he brought to it. I wish him nothing but good wishes. Much love.

Kerri Schreiber

Jersey City, New Jersey

Working at AKC, Dennis knew from day one how much I loved Golden Retrievers, and every day made sure to tell me to have a golden day!

Fábio Amorim

President of the Brazilian Kennel Club (CBKC)

Dennis has done an extraordinary job for the AKC during the 22 years he has been at the helm of this admirable institution, and beyond any doubt he has contributed decisively to its growth and stability.

Expanding the effects of this intense and dedicated work, Dennis has not only focused on the U.S. canine world, but his relationships with his counterparts in other countries such as Brazil have created closer ties that unite us with the AKC.

Due to his brilliant performance our organizations become even closer, always seeking a healthy and fruitful exchange of experiences in the promotion of canine sports, with absolute priority to the welfare of our beloved dogs.

Thank you very much, dear friend, and rest assured that the CBKC and I will always be grateful for your unconditional support.

Bruce Schwartz

Los Angeles, California

I hope Dennis realizes how much people have appreciated his leadership and his commitment to the AKC staff.  

Florence Foti

Bradley Beach, New Jersey

I have known Dennis for more than 20 years, personally and professionally. In my role as the director of operations for the Westminster Kennel Club, he was an outstanding mentor to me throughout my time at WKC. Whenever I had a question about the history of the sport, he always provided a very detailed explanation. We worked closely during the weeks that led up to our event to ensure that all the details were covered. I also enjoyed our dinners together. He will always remind me of the good times!

Jason Bailey

Amissiville, Virginia

I first met Dennis while working for Mr. Edwards; we had gone to lunch with him, Mr. Sabella and Mr. Menaker. Over the years of seeing Mr. Sprung, I was always running ideas by him. Some got implemented, and some didn't. But his love and dedication to this sport we all love cannot be matched. He cared deeply for the dogs and exhibitors just as much. I am fortunate to be able to call him a friend, and I am very grateful for all the long, tireless work he chose to give the AKC over his tenure. 

Joan Navas

Bronx, New York

I have owned AKC-registered dogs for decades. Years ago, to gain knowledge about breeding, I attended the Westminster dog show to watch Irish Setters. After the judging, I visited the grooming area and asked someone if a certain dog was the breed winner. This random person was Dennis Sprung, who introduced me to the breeder, owner and handler. Not knowing me from Adam, he welcomed me, explained judging and the virtues of the AKC. I have now lost faith in the AKC. Breeding will continue, but why register?

Cathy Rubens

Kenly, North Carolina

Mr. Sprung is an approachable intellectual who would answer a Saturday phone call, listen to your concerns and address your issues on Monday. I already miss his humanity.  

Kathleen J. Ferris

Holland, Pennsylvania

There is no one thought that comes to mind, but rather a series of memories over many years. To highlight, Mr. Sprung was supportive of newcomers to the sport. He encouraged youth with kind words as they were learning to show and compete in Juniors. He was complimentary and encouraging to new young professionals. He continued that same support as we became judges. I believe his kind words may have helped some stay with the sport when they felt like giving up. He was always about representing the AKC in its most positive form, not just to those of us in the sport but also to the public. 

These are my thoughts and fond memories — too many to be specific, so for me a warm, beautiful collage of memories I will always cherish.