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.

We are committed to protecting and preserving all pure-bred dogs around the World. We are aware of important issues affecting dogs in different countries like the dog meat trade and - as dog lovers - it is our responsibility to act on it. Educational campaigns have been launched with more of them to continue. We are pressuring governments from different countries to legislate against any type of dog meat trade and publicly and intensely oppose dog cruelty activities such as the Yulin Festival in China.

Every year we find more and more proposals and legislations that jeopardise our sport, our passion and our dogs. It is a worldwide trend, and it has to be stopped if we want to keep our sport as we know it. It will be only possible if we are united towards a common purpose, promoting responsible dog ownership and breeding and ensuring dog’s health and welfare.

2017 will be no different. We need to stay strong and together in other to succeed. We need to concentrate our efforts in our most important mission: protect and celebrate our dogs.

May this holiday season be full of happiness. On behalf of the FCI General Committee and the FCI members we wish you, your family and your dog(s) a happy and successful 2017.

Rafael de Santiago
FCI President