Editor's Note
Listening over the Internet last month to the Assembly Appropriations Committee hearing on SB1548, I let out a whoop of joy when I heard Senator Liz Figueroa remove the ear cropping provision from her bill. I wasn't alone�in the background, fanciers in attendance clapped and clamored, and I have no doubt those sounds spread in a wave across the country as purebred dog owners learned of their success. Read more about this important win in our feature article and in Mr. Dennis Sprung's and Mr. Ron Menaker's thank you letter to the fancy.
The Canine Legislation department also had cause to celebrate in August with the arrival of Melissa Allcox, our new Research Coordinator. We welcome her to our very busy corner of AKC!
Finally, it is with great excitement and just a bit of sadness that I say goodbye to the print version of Taking Command. This will be the final paper issue before we move solely to our electronic newsletter next month, and while I have been involved in its printing and production for nearly six years, I am very enthusiastic about all of the benefits this convenient, timely tool will bring.
Regards,
United Effort Defeats Proposed Ear Cropping Ban in California
Cheers of joy could be heard from coast to coast in early August as fanciers from across the country celebrated Senator Liz Figueroa's removal of the ear cropping prohibition from SB1548, an otherwise widely-supported veterinary medicine bill. AKC and purebred dog owners began working in June to defeat the prohibition, which would have made it a misdemeanor to crop a dog's ears.
Purebred dog owners nationwide reached out to each other to form a united front on this issue. AKC led the charge early on by alerting fanciers with phone calls, e-mails, special mailings, Web alerts and booth flyers. Purebred dog owners quickly mobilized against the proposed ban, organizing e-mail and call lists, letter-writing campaigns, and placing petitions at various dog shows. The Doberman Pinscher Club of America spearheaded a national fundraiser in order to hire lobbyists who proved invaluable to the fancy's opposition effort. Through it all, AKC Board and staff, numerous Parent Clubs as well as other AKC clubs, the dog press, and individual dog owners worked tirelessly with legislators and with the veterinary community to help them understand our position.
This victory is significant on many levels. Most obviously, California dog owners will continue to enjoy the right to make their own informed, responsible decisions about their animals without fear of intrusion by the government. Equally important is the message that was sent to California's legislators: The purebred dog community is a large, concerned constituency whose activities have a significant economic impact on the state. We are a responsible, valuable resource, and our voices should be heard.
AKC extends its appreciation and congratulations to everyone involved in the defeat of the proposed ear cropping ban (Please see the letter of appreciation to the fancy from AKC President and CEO Dennis Sprung and Chairman Ron Menaker.). We further extend our appreciation to Senator Figueroa and other California legislators who took the time to listen to and consider our concerns. We urge all fanciers to contact the Senator with their thanks. Let this victory be a model for future legislative efforts. When we work together, we can win!
Around the Nation
Legislation That Affects You
CALIFORNIA - In August, Sen. Figueroa removed the amendment banning ear cropping from S1548, a bill pertaining to veterinary medicine. SB1548 passed the Assembly Committee on Appropriations and has moved on to the Assembly. The AKC and fanciers across the country worked tirelessly to oppose the ear cropping provision. Purebred dog fanciers should be extremely proud of this victory. Congratulations! For more information, please see our feature article, or visit www.akc.org.
- El Cajon dogs and their owners can now run and play in the city's new 1.4-acre dog run at Wells Park. The dog park, which has been in the works for a few years features dual drinking fountains for dogs and their owners as well as gravel- and grass-covered runs.
- La Mesa officials recently approved revisions to strengthen the city's vicious dog ordinance. While the revisions are not breed-specific, dogs deemed vicious under the new law are to be euthanized within five days. Owners may appeal the designation and exemptions may be provided if the dog was provoked or acting in self-defense.
- Officials in Pasadena have decided against a proposal to add the term "guardian" to the municipal code wherever "owner" is referenced. AKC will continue to monitor the situation closely and we urge local fanciers to do the same.
- The Riverbank City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that establishes fines for owners of dogs and cats who do not clean up after their pets. Violators are subject to a $50 fine for a first offense and a $200 fine for each subsequent offense.
FLORIDA - Following the recent approval of an ordinance that bans dogs from a 590-foot-long stretch of beach, Palm Beach dogs now have something to wag their tails about. The county recently opened Pooch Pines, a new off-leash dog run in Okeeheelee Park. The park includes three fenced rings, one for small dogs and two for large dogs, water bowls and a wash area. There are also gazebos and benches for owners
GEORGIA - Canton officials are studying a proposal to fence off a 29-acre area in Heritage Park to be designated as an off-leash dog run. If approved, the dog park will be the first in the community. The Canine Legislation department sent materials to local fanciers and a letter of support to the mayor and city council. A decision is expected in the fall.
INDIANA - Officials in Fort Wayne recently approved an ordinance that establishes an animal exhibitors permit, which allows exhibitors to keep up to five unaltered dogs or cats for an annual $150 fee. Local fanciers first brought the issue to city council members in 2003 after the city enacted an ordinance that limited residents to one intact animal. Neither Fort Wayne dog owners nor AKC had an opportunity for input prior to the passage of last year's ordinance.
IOWA - The Council Bluffs Kennel Club reports that city officials voted against a breed-specific dangerous dog ordinance. The Canine Legislation department sent a letter of opposition and materials to the mayor and city council. Thank you to all those who mobilized to oppose this measure. For additional information, contact Phyllis Gasper, Council Bluffs Kennel Club (sdgroom@aol.com).
- The newly formed Monticello Council for Responsible Pet Owners and Pet Safety reports that city officials have tabled a proposed breed-specific dangerous dog ordinance so they may study the issue further. AKC sent materials to local fanciers and a letter of opposition to the mayor and city council. For more information, contact Lisa Boysen, Monticello Council for Responsible Pet Owners and Pet Safety (badkitty80@hotmail.com).
KANSAS - Before AKC or local fanciers were aware, the Augusta City Council approved a breed-specific dangerous dog ordinance that automatically classifies "pit bulls," American Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers and Doberman Pinschers as vicious dogs. Under the new law, vicious dogs must be registered with the city annually at a cost of $100. Owners must also obtain $100,000 in liability insurance. Concerned dog owners are lobbying local officials to replace the new law with a strict yet generic dangerous dog ordinance. AKC sent materials and a letter to the mayor and city council in support of this effort. For more information contact, Maria Ciski (mtciski@sbcglobal.net).
- Leavenworth City Commissioners continue to consider revisions to the city's dangerous dog ordinance, however, the proposed changes are not breed-specific. The Canine Legislation department sent a letter and materials opposing breed-specific legislation to city officials. AKC and local fanciers are monitoring the situation closely. For more information, contact Judith Goodin, Leavenworth Kennel Club (913-727-1966).
- In July, the Salina City Commission approved an ordinance that bans new "pit bulls" from the city and places tight restrictions on existing pit bulls. The new law requires owners to register their dogs with the city and obtain $100,000 in liability insurance. Pit bulls must also be microchipped and wear an orange collar for identification. The AKC sent an opposition letter and materials to city officials and worked with local dog owners to oppose the measure.
KENTUCKY - Bowling Green City Commissioners have tabled a proposed animal control ordinance in order to study the issue further. The proposal included limiting residents to a total of six dogs or cats, a kennel license fee and increased licensing fees for intact animals. AKC sent a letter of opposition and materials to city officials and encourages local fanciers to do the same. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and we will keep you informed as the issue progresses.
- Kenton County dogs and their owners have a new place to play. Pioneer Park officially opened its "Paw Park" dog run in July. Dogs must be at least four months old to exercise in the park, which is fenced and has water bowls and a "time-out" area for four-legged visitors.
MARYLAND - Members of the Prince George's County Council continue to consider the repeal of the county's "pit bull" ban. A proposed ordinance would lift the ban and focus on a dog's behavior rather than its breed. A vote will likely come this fall. The Canine Legislation department sent a letter of support to county council members and encourages local fanciers to do the same. For additional information, contact Adrianne Lefkowitz, Maryland Dog Federation (901-693-2256 or euniverz@aol.com).
MASSACHUSETTS - The New Bedford City Council may soon consider a breed-specific dangerous dog ordinance. The Canine Legislation department sent a letter and materials to city officials and is working with local fanciers to oppose the measure. For more information, contact the Massachusetts Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners (jrembrandtseeley@aol.com).
MICHIGAN - The Michigan Association of Pure Bred Dog Owners and local fanciers are working with Benton Harbor officials to create a fair and effective dangerous dog law in lieu of a proposed breed-specific ordinance. AKC sent materials and a letter supporting their efforts to the mayor and city council. For additional information, contact the Dr. Al Stinson, Michigan Association of Pure Bred Dog Owners (LSFC2@aol.com).
MISSISSIPPI - Gulfport officials continue to consider changes to the city's animal control code including a differential licensing proposal that would increase costs for intact dogs. The Canine Legislation department sent a second letter opposing the measure in August. For more information, contact Linda Hoff, Singing River Kennel Club (beaucavs@pobox.com).
MISSOURI - Before AKC or local fanciers were aware, the St. Louis City Council quietly passed a measure that adds the term "guardian" to the municipal code wherever owner is referenced. AKC sent a letter to city officials asking that they reconsider the change.
MONTANA - The City of Bozeman recently opened its first designated dog park at the Highland Boulevard softball complex. The city will add picnic benches and clean-up bag dispensers soon. If the park is successful, Bozeman would like to add additional parks.
NEBRASKA - In July, the Omaha City Council unanimously approved new regulations for the city's rescue groups. Under the new rules, animal rescuers are limited to a total of eight animals, including their own pets, and groups are required to report microchip identification numbers to the humane society in a timely manner. The changes allow rescue groups to avoid inspections and license fee for foster animals in their care.
NEW JERSEY - The Borough of Manville has removed a provision limiting the number of pets residents may own from a proposed animal control ordinance. The measure still includes a provision for nuisance barking. Contact the New Jersey Federation of Dog Clubs (http://www.njfederationofdogclubs.org) for additional information.
NEW MEXICO - Albuquerque fanciers continue to lobby against proposed changes to the city's animal control code that include $150 intact animal and litter permits, mandatory microchipping, and a limit law. The measure is expected to go before the city council this fall. The Canine Legislation department is working closely with fanciers to oppose this ordinance. For more information, contact the Rio Grande Kennel Club (bedrckbouv@aol.com).
NEW YORK - Asm. Tonko's A6635 was sent to the governor in August. The bill establishes a dangerous dog advisory board and requires owners of dangerous dogs to notify the municipal clerk so that emergency personnel can be made aware of the dog's presence. A6635 also makes the owner of a dangerous dog that has attacked a person, companion animal or farm animal strictly liable for medical costs caused by the attack.
- Governor Pataki signed A8586 into law on July 20. The new law prohibits animal fighting and makes it a felony to breed, sell, or purchase any animal with the intent that the animal engage in fighting. Such an offense is punishable by a fine of up to $25,000 and up to four years in jail.
- After residents failed to comply with a 2002 ordinance requiring owners to clean-up after their pets, Onondaga city officials recently passed a measure that bans domestic animals from the town's parks. Exemptions from the ban are provided for guide and service dogs.
NORTH CAROLINA - Dogs in Mecklenburg County will soon have a new place to play. The county is set to open its third off-leash dog run in Ramsey Park in December. The run will feature separate areas for small and large dogs, canine playground equipment and a dog-washing area. The county is currently exploring locations for additional dog parks. Dog owners must purchase a "Pooch Pass" to gain entry to the parks. Proceeds from the pass fund park maintenance.
OHIO - In August, Columbus officials passed an animal cruelty ordinance that includes stipulations that dogs can not be left inside cars in weather warmer than 85 degrees and that shelter be provided for dogs left outdoors for eight or more hours per day. The ordinance also requires that animals be leashed when on public property.
TENNESSEE - Officials in Smyrna are studying a breed-specific dangerous dog law. The Canine Legislation department sent a statement of opposition to city officials opposing such laws and also mailed materials to local fanciers. For information, contact Responsible Animal Owners of Tennessee (raotinc@aol.com).
TEXAS - The El Paso City Council is considering an animal control ordinance that includes breeder permits and differential licensing for unaltered cats and dogs. AKC sent a letter of opposition and materials to city officials. The Canine Legislation department and local fanciers will continue to monitor the situation closely. Contact the Ornate Trail Dog Fanciers (vjrs@aol.com) for more information.
WISCONSIN - Officials in the village of Luxemburg are currently exploring a proposal to limit residents to a total of three cats or dogs. Owners currently exceeding that number would be allowed to keep their animals. AKC sent a letter and materials to village officials opposing animal limits.
ITALY - Legislators recently approved an animal cruelty bill that increases the penalty for abandoning pets. Italians found guilty of such an offense are now subject to up to one year in prison and fines of up to 10000 euros ($16,200).
AKC Letter of Appreciation to the Fancy for Their Efforts in California
Dear Members of the Fancy:
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for all the wonderful work you did to defeat the proposed cropping ban in California. Your efforts, your voice, your commitment to fighting this battle made the difference, and we know we would not have won this challenge without you.
There is indeed strength in numbers and the purebred dog fancy demonstrated just how strong it could be in California. Through your actions, we have set a precedent; we can accomplish great things when we work together. We have seen firsthand that presenting a united stand results in a positive outcome.
We wish to express special thanks to those among you who played leadership roles in organizing the opposition efforts. Thank you to Dr. Anthony DiNardo, Pamela DeHetre and Jeff Helsden and other members of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America for their work in organizing a grassroots campaign among parent clubs of cropped breeds. These individuals were also instrumental in establishing a fundraising drive that secured two lobbyists who worked directly with California legislators on our behalf. We would also like to thank John Connolly and the American Boxer Club for their efforts to raise awareness as well as raise funds. Our thanks also to Jerry Burge of the San Francisco Bay Scottish Terrier Club, the California Federation of Dog Clubs, the Animal Council, Peter Piusz and the members of the ad hoc Delegates' Committee on Cropping and Docking for their commitment to the issue, and the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) Trust for their many action alerts and work with legislators.
We know there will be future legislative proposals that threaten the rights of responsible dog owners, but we also know that we have strong, dedicated fanciers such as yourself who will work with us to ensure that those efforts do not succeed. Working as a team, we will be able to enjoy our dogs and our sport for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Ronald H. Menaker and Dennis B. Sprung
Federal Notes
By Jim Holt, AKC's Federal Government Relations Consultant
July saw the successful conclusion of two federal issues of importance to the dog fancy, both of which were supported by the AKC. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued its long-awaited final rule strengthening the federal Animal Care regulations applicable to commercial dog dealers. Also, Congress enacted the "Minor Use and Minor Species Animal Health Act," or MUMS, which President Bush signed into law in August.
The amendments to the APHIS Animal Care regulations had been pending almost 4 years. AKC supported the amendments when they were proposed, and for the past 2 years has been urging the Secretary of Agriculture directly, and through members of Congress, to finalize and implement them. The amendments tighten several loopholes and make needed housekeeping changes in the regulations pertaining to the licensing and enforcement of regulations applicable to persons who breed and sell dogs at wholesale or who procure dogs or cats for resale or for research. The most important changes include limiting the small breeder exemption to only those premises on which 3 or fewer breeding females of regulated species are kept, regardless of ownership. Previously, each person owning 3 or fewer breeding females and their breeding activity were exempt, regardless of how many breeding females were present on a single premises. The amendments also tighten procedures for issuing and renewing licenses in instances where the applicant has violated federal, state or local animal laws. They further preclude renewing a license while it is under suspension, and additionally provide for terminating a license for any reason that an initial license may be denied. Finally, the amendments also tighten the requirements for regulated entities such as Class B dealers and research facilities which acquire dogs from unlicensed entities.
Passage of the MUMS legislation was also supported by AKC. The legislation increases the availability of approved drugs for use in treating rare diseases in major species of animals (i.e. "minor uses") and for all uses in minor species (zoological animals). For the purpose of veterinary drug regulation, dogs are considered a "major species." Animal drugs must be label-approved by the FDA for each individual use in each individual species. For many of the less common diseases and conditions in major species (dogs), and for all uses in minor species (zoological animals), there is too little potential demand to justify the cost of the full FDA drug approval process. Use of drugs which aren't label-approved entails risks and potential liabilities that many veterinarians are unwilling to incur. The MUMS legislation will permit the FDA to expedite the veterinary drug approval process for minor uses in major non-food animal species and in minor non-food animals species so that more drugs can be label-approved.
New Face in Canine Legislation
We are pleased to announce the addition of Melissa Allcox to the AKC's Canine Legislation team. In her role as Research Coordinator, Melissa will be responsible for developing, researching and maintaining databases on critical legislative issues that impact dog owners. Previously, Melissa worked in both the Planning and Engineering Departments for the City of Wilmington, where she gained considerable expertise in database planning and management. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a degree in Political Science, Melissa brings a unique blend of experience that should serve our department well. We are pleased to have her on board. Welcome Melissa!
Meet and Greet
In July, AKC attended the National Conference of State Legislatures in Salt Lake City. AKC attends the NCSL conference each year to promote AKC's message of responsible dog ownership and to educate government officials about the sport of purebred dogs. While there, we also offer our materials, AKC dog leashes and our expertise on canine legislation. This conference offers a wonderful opportunity for the Canine Legislation department to reach a large, diverse group of state legislators who have the power to positively impact fanciers and the activities we enjoy with our dogs.
Legislative Liaisons can help reinforce the connections we make at NCSL and other conferences by reaching out to your local and state representatives individually. Since late summer is generally a slower time for legislative action, we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to contact your community's elected officials. Volunteer to serve on a task force or share information about your public education or outreach programs. Help us make legislators think of purebred dog owners as the resource to seek when they have a concern regarding animal control.
It's Not Too Late!
Taking Command's first e-newsletter edition was launched in August and received an enthusiastic response from many regular readers. The new version continues to feature a broad range of articles on local, state and federal issues as well as our "Around the Nation" legislative round-up. It also contains links to AKC resources, state federation Web sites, and e-mail addresses for local contacts and legislators. As we expand this new format, we look forward to adding interactive surveys that will allow our readers to share their opinions and concerns about canine legislation issues. By disseminating the newsletter electronically, we are able to bring you a great deal of information in a more timely manner. That way, you can keep abreast of the latest changes in legislation that directly impacts you.
Please keep in mind that the newsletter will be distributed by e-mail only beginning in October. We don't want you to miss a single issue, so please send us your e-mail address as soon as possible if you have not done so already. We hope you enjoy the new format!
