A new scheme to raise the standards of dog training in the UK will be launched at Crufts next year.

The Kennel Club Accreditation Scheme for Instructors in Dog Training and Canine Behaviour (KCAI) and Purina PRO PLAN, have formed a partnership to deliver the highest standards of education, guidance and support to all those who work with dogs.

The partnership between Purina PRO PLAN and the KCAI Scheme will deliver face-to-face quality educational guidance and advice to canine professionals through a series of regional events throughout 2013 and beyond. 

KCAI is the UK’s independently recognised stamp of quality for those delivering the highest standards of care and advice to dog owners.

The partnership will begin with a new and exciting feature at Crufts 2013 - the KCAI Career Zone in collaboration with Purina PRO PLAN. 

Aimed at professionals in the dog world, the KCAI Career Zone will see industry experts offer seminars, workshops and career guidance. KCAI members and professionals working with dogs, who book into the Career Zone in advance, will be offered free entry to Crufts.

There will be a KCAI Scheme Annual Member Event at the Kennel Club Building at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on 8^th and 9^th June 2013, designed to develop the knowledge and experience of KCAI members through a series of workshops and lectures.

Here, Purina PRO PLAN will deliver a series of lectures explaining the fundamental role that nutrition plays in canine behaviour. 

There are further events planned across the UK and the full schedule will be announced shortly.



Judith Nicholson, Recommendation Manager for Purina PRO PLAN, said: “There are a large number of dedicated, knowledgeable and experienced people working in a whole range of canine related fields; dog trainers, canine behaviourists, rescue and re-homing employees and volunteers, those who work for assistance dog charities, dog wardens and animal control officers, canine physical therapists and veterinary nurses.  All of these areas require specialist knowledge and training to meet a professional standard. 

“We at Purina PRO PLAN are delighted to be working with the KCAI Scheme to ensure that canine professionals are given access to quality  training and education resources.”

Paul Rawlings, Chairman of the KCAI Board, said, “The KCAI Scheme has been growing rapidly, as more and more people understand the need to work under a quality ‘kitemark’ and a robust code of practice, which can reassure dog owners that their pet is getting the high standard of care that they deserve.

“Ourselves and Purina PRO PLAN are passionate about improving the health and welfare of dogs through training, education and optimum nutrition. Our partnership marks an exciting new era for the scheme, where we can work together to continually raise standards and support experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the canine world.  

“Crufts is an ideal place to launch this venture, being a key event in every dog lover’s calendar where dog professionals can exchange news and views.”

The full list of seminars, workshops and mentoring opportunities being offered over the four days of Crufts and details on how to register will be announced in December on the Crufts website.