Time really flies! At the twilight of 2016 we can definitely say that this year was challenging but gratifying. To run a global federation like the Fédération Cynologique Internationale is not an easy task. Cultural, political and vision differences bring conflicts that must be promptly resolved, taking into consideration how the results will affect the cynological community. Thanks to a great team work and efforts we managed to solve the issues we were faced with during this past year.

After months of speculations regarding the ability of the RKF to organise the World Dog Show 2016, the most important dog show in the World was a world-class event with marvelous dogs, incredible hospitality and excellent press. On the other hand we were sad to hear that Ecuador resigned from the organisation of the FCI General Assembly and the World Dog Show 2017. Making history, the VDH, in an unprecedented situation, took a step forward to organise both events in Leipzig, Germany, next November. We are grateful and proud that the VDH took this huge responsibility.

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Rafael de Santiago
FCI President
2016 Baltic Winner Show: the "classics" are still highly valued!

On November 12th and 13th 2016, no less than 2,541 dogs met in Riga to try and win the Baltic Winner title. As much as 265 different breeds were shown and judged by an international panel of 17 judges.

The show has tremendous appeal: the organisers could draw upon the presence of 122 commercial and information stands. What’s more, the dog show was combined with a cat show, and the wide audience (15,500 visitors) also had the opportunity to admire various exotic species, rabbits, spiders, insects, etc.

Last but not least, the main ring also hosted Agility, Freestyle and Frisbee contests – a must for any show worthy of the name.

As part of the partnership between the FCI and its members, the Latvian canine organisation had also been so kind as to invite the FCI Stand on the show. Besides, the event featured a thorough presentation of the FCI, its various bodies and their operating principles, with nearly 60 people in attendance. That was an opportunity to share a few ideas with the attendees, who made enquiries about various topics such as whether or not dogs with cropped ears/tail can be shown.

We wish to congratulate the President of the Latvian canine organisation, Mrs V. Klucniece, and her whole team for their energy, enthusiasm and professionalism – those are all qualities that showed through the flawless organisation of a very popular event.

Y. De Clercq
Executive Director