New features announced for Crufts 2013
A new flagship stand is to be present at this year's Crufts, taking place from 7th-10th March. The Career Zone will include a new programme of seminars, careers advice and mentoring for all those working with dogs. The stand is being hosted by the Kennel Club Accredited Instructor scheme (KCAI) in partnership with Purina PRO PLAN.
One of the key features will be a lecture theatre offering hour-long professional development lectures, delivered by industry experts and covering a wide range of subjects aimed at benefiting anyone who works with dogs. Topics include important aspects of rescue and re-homing, assistance dogs, dog wardens, dog training and canine behavioural theory. As these are aimed at contributing to a programme of continual professional development, attendance certificates will be included.
Another feature is the KCAI Expert Advice panel, where industry experts will be offering advice to those who are interested in a career with dogs, or existing professionals hoping to develop their careers. The Career Zone panel will offer advice to dog trainers, veterinary nurses, dog wardens, canine therapists, and those working with assistance dogs, and rescue and re-homing. Purina PRO PLAN will also be delivering lectures on various aspects of nutrition, and providing further advice on a one-to-one basis.
A range of additional benefits will be available to KCAI members, including access to the exclusive KCAI Lounge, educational resources, one-to-one mentoring sessions and group workshops.
Judith Nicholson, recommendation manager for Purina PRO PLAN said: “KCAI is the UK’s independently recognised stamp of quality for those delivering the highest standards of care and advice to dog owners and we are delighted to be working in partnership with KCAI to launch the Career Zone at Crufts."
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
