Canine Resources
American Kennel Club: Established in 1884, the AKC is the oldest purebred dog registry in the United States. Its website has information about purebreds, a Canine Partners program for dogs of mixed ancestry, and dog competitions such as agility, obedience, rally and tracking as well as conformation events. Website: www.akc.org
Orthopedic Foundation of Animals: OFA was founded to evaluate canine hip radiographs to try to manage and combat canine hip dysplasia. OFA now evaluates and/or compiles test results for numerous other health disorders. It also now has its own Eye Certification Registry which includes the database of canine eye examinations previously maintained by the Canine Eye Research Foundation (CERF). Individuals can search OFA’s online database to determine if a specific dog has received OFA health clearances. Website: www.offa.org
Labrador Retriever Club Inc. The LRC is the AKC parent breed club of the Labrador Retriever. Its website sets forth the Labrador standard which details the acceptable physical and mental characteristics of the breed. This includes the proper temperament, movement, size, body structure and three colors: black, chocolate and yellow. Other articles about Labradors and misconceptions also are posted. Website: www.thelabradorclub.com
Labrador Retriever Club of Greater Denver. The club publishes useful health information as well as upcoming events in its online newsletter, The Retriever Believer. Website: www.lrcgd.com
Morris Animal Foundation: Established in 1948, the Foundation is dedicated to researching and improving animals’ health. The website sets forth useful health information as well as links to the American Animal Hospital Association’s health guidelines for dogs and cats. Website: www.morrisanimalfoundation.org
Investigating and Writing Resources
LexisNexis: This company provides access to legal sources and documents including laws of a few states without charge. Website: www.lexisnexus.com The company also runs a public online service that permits the public to access basic information contained in Colorado county and district court records. Juvenile and probate cases are excluded from this database. Website: https://www.cocourts.com/cocourts/
Public Access to Courts Electronic Records (PACER): This is an online service that allows the public to access information about federal appellate, district and bankruptcy court cases nationwide. Website: https://www.pacer.gov/
The Chicago Manual of Style: A stylist guide that is used by writers, editors and publishers. The guide is available as a hardback book or online. Website: www.chicagomanualofstyle.org
Writers Digest: The magazine is published six times a year and contains a variety of articles on many facets of writing and publishing. Its website also contains a host of useful information. Website: www.writersdigest.com
The Writer: The monthly magazine provides articles and tips on all writing genres. Its website also offers helpful resources, including lists of agents and publishers. Website: www.thewritermag.com