GREAT FALLS (AP) -- The American Kennel Club's board of directors has suspended convicted collie abusers Jon and Athena Harman from ever registering dogs or entering dogs in AKC shows.

The AKC ordinarily suspends breeders convicted of animal cruelty for 10 years and fines them $2,000.

But because of the number of dogs involved ''and the horrific conditions these dogs were made to endure," the organization's Management Disciplinary Committee recommended a lifetime suspension for the Harmans. The board agreed at its meeting July 7-8.