Fonner Park, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
GRAND ISLAND — 60 plus years ago, a trio of mid-Nebraskans shared passion and a vision.
They understood the significant role dogs play in the lives of both individuals and communities. They wanted to share their expertise in training and exhibiting fine purebred dogs with others. As a result of this group’s efforts, the Grand Island Kennel Club (GIKC) was formed.
The Grand Island Kennel Club invites the public to join them as they return to Fonner Park on May 10th& 11th for the AKC All Breed Dog Show, Obedience & Rally Trials. The show will be held at the Fonner Park Pinnacle Bank Expo Center. All shows will be held indoors and unbenched, with all Obedience & Rally Trials open to All-American Dogs listed in the AKC Canine Partners Program. The public is encouraged to come early in the day if they expect to observe their favorite breed. All breed judging starts at 8:30a.m. with groups being held in the afternoon. Doors open to the public at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday and 8:00 a.m. on Sunday. Admission will be $5 per day for adults, children 12 and under are free. All tickets will be sold at the door. Strollers and un-entered dogs are not allowed for this event. There is also Fast Cat trials on Friday May 9th-11th out behind the Event Center! A great sport open to All Breeds including ILP dogs.
The Grand Island Kennel Club purchased some land, including a lake, where they built a clubhouse. Families have enjoyed camping, picnicking and fishing at the club as well as working with their dogs through the years. The building was a victim of the 1980 tornado but was rebuilt in the same footprint as the original, and today is home to countless classes and other activities.
[Text Wrapping Break]The GIKC has been an important part of Grand Island and Hall County since its inception. Community members realized that “A trained dog is a good dog”, and brought their pets to the Kennel Club for obedience training, filling classes year after year. Dogs are trained at the Club to certify as nationally recognized “Canine Good Citizens”. Newer programs such as rally and agility provide a fun, healthy activity for dog-owners of all ages. Top quality purebred dogs continue to be trained to compete in conformation shows of which some GIKC dogs have achieved national prominence for their local breeders and owners.
Working with area youth, especially through 4-H, has always been important for the Club. Members have helped hundreds of 4-H’ers train, exhibit and learn to care for their dogs, offering a wholesome environment and positive role models. Many canine-related educational programs have been held for the public through the years. GIKC members regularly take dogs to schools, Scout meetings, the Veterans Home and nursing homes for demonstrations. Additionally, specially trained and certified dogs provide comforting Hospice-based therapy to patients. Kennel Club members helped to found the Central Nebraska Humane Society in 1967, as well as the adjacent pet cemetery, which benefits people throughout mid-Nebraska.
