Practical content, various networking opportunities and a prime entertainment destination proved an irresistible combination as 707 professional trainers, speakers, exhibitors and guests converged on Las Vegas, Nev., Oct. 12-15, for the Association of Professional Dog Trainers’ 23rd Annual Conference.
The meeting offered over 30 hours of continuing education in diverse and relevant areas of professional training, from aggression and nutrition to positive reinforcement and pertinent business topics. In addition, professional trick dog trainer, Sara Carson served as the opening keynote speaker while renowned trainer, Victoria Stilwell, VSPDT, presented the closing keynote on Positive Training with High-drive Working Dogs.
“The APDT conference brought together trainers from all different backgrounds and experiences representing the United States and 12 other countries to discuss training methods and philosophies,” said APDT Executive Director, David Feldner. “Attendees’ moods were very upbeat and positive regarding the content of the program and the meeting location.”
Highlights from the 2016 convention included:
Annual awards presented: Six AAEP members and one law enforcement officer were honored during the Oct. 12 Awards Ceremony presented by Dr. Ian Dunbar.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Sue Sternberg
2016 Dr. Ian Dunbar Member of the Year Award – Bill Hatherley, B.A.
APDT Foundation Scholarship Winners: Michaela McKay, Melanie Reicheck, CPDT-KA, and Kait W. Seyal, CPDT-KA.
Dogwise Shelter Scholarship Award: Melissa Morgan Smith
Blue-9 Working Dog Scholarship Award: Deputy Kristi Bridgman
Events raise funds for the AAEP Foundation: Combined proceeds from the AAEP Foundation’s silent and live auction and donations at the Foundation booth raised over $13,500 in support of the Foundation’s mission to continue scientific research and the further the education of dog trainers.
The APDT’s 24th Annual Convention will be held in Virginia at Richmond’s Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, Oct. 18-21, 2017.
The Association of Professional Dog Trainers, headquartered in Lexington, Ky., was founded in 1993 to be an inclusive forum for trainers to network with each other, provide educational opportunities, and grow the profession. Currently, the APDT reaches more than 5,200 members in 48 countries worldwide and is actively involved in ethics issues, business management, research, and continuing education in the professional dog training profession and pet industry.
CONTACT:
Mandy Roberts, (859) 545-0483
mandy.roberts@apdt.com
2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A325
Lexington, KY 40504
(800) PET-DOGS