Looking Back at 2002 and Into the Future
2003 is swiftly approaching with many of us uneasy about the tremulous global economy, the difficulty in the Middle East and the hope for the future of our human family. It is hence comforting in some small way to return home after a toilful day to be greeted once more by a wagging tail and doting eyes. For me at least, it seems to make it all worthwhile. While the human race has struggled over the past 15,000 years to find its place, direction and purpose on this planet, our domestic dog has stood beside us on all fours, accompanying us down the lonely and sometimes uncertain road as our faithful companion. For this, I am grateful and, in return, I have dedicated my life and career to these amazing animals.
The closing year has been both a stirring and encouraging one for our professional association. We saw the election of our first formal Board of Directors, headed by Dr. Abrantes who has the benefit of working with a notable group of animal professionals and academics. We saw several new committees come into being and our Board of Professional Certification has overseen or is overseeing through its mentors the cultivation of almost two dozen present and future CBCs from Belgium, Japan, Canada, Germany, Australia and the United States; all of whom will undoubtedly endeavor to make a difference for dogs and their human caregivers throughout the world. Our Association is now recognized globally thanks to the efforts of our members, our Board, our Approved Education Providers and our presence on the Internet. Although we are but a small speck in the world of applied animal behavior, we are a sleeping giant who will very soon come into its own.
My vision for 2003 is an exigent one, nonetheless attainable with hard work and the passion of our membership and Board of Directors. I, for one, am committed to growing our Association; not to be measured by simple numbers and the rush to notoriety; but instead, to be measured by the practiced quality of individuals, scientific exemplar and commitment to professional development in field of applied companion animal behavior. We will achieve greatness in time however; we are not dissimilar in comparison to other professional membership organizations. We are comprised of volunteers who must be willing to contribute to our group for the good of all. I am grateful for those of you who have given your ideas and you time to helping us attain our ambitions. I urge each and every one of you to contribute to our association in some way in 2003. In this way, we will grow responsibly and make a difference for the little creatures we love so much, those great and small.
Have a happy and health holiday season and a prosperous New Year.
Robert DeFranco, CBC
Secretary, Member of the Board of Directors
Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors, Inc.
November, 2003
