In addition to the numerous state bills, the AKC Government Relations Department is also tracking over 70 local proposals that will affect your rights as dog owners. If you hear of an issue in your community, contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org. We will be happy to provide you with the resources, tools, and support you need to help fight for responsible dog ownership in your community. Here are a few of the local issues we are currently working on:

Breed-Specific Legislation

Anderson County, KY – The Anderson County Fiscal Court is considering an ordinance that would deem “pit bulls,” defined as American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers and Bull Terriers to be vicious dogs. The AKC Government Relations department has sent a letter opposing the breed restrictions to the Fiscal Court and has alerted local AKC delegates, judges and club officers about the proposal and asking them to also send letters of opposition.

New York City Housing Authority – The New York City Housing Authority has adopted a policy to prohibit residents in public housing from owning “pit bulls,” Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers or any dog over 25 pounds. AKC President and CEO Dennis Sprung sent a letter opposing this policy change and AKC Government Relations staff posted an alert on our website asking concerned New Yorkers to contact the Mayor and the NYCHA Board. You can read more about this on our website.

Mandatory Spay/Neuter

Deland, FL – The Deland City Commission approved a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance at their May 20th meeting. The AKC Government Relations staff alerted local AKC delegates, judges and club officers about the proposal and asking them to express their opposition. The AKC also sent a letter to the local elected officials explaining why mandatory spay/neuter is an ineffective policy.

Ponce Inlet, FL – The Ponce Inlet Town Council approved a mandatory spay/neuter proposal on May 18th. The AKC Government Relations staff alerted local AKC delegates, judges and club officers asking them to express their opposition. The AKC also sent a letter of opposition with an explanation of why MSN is bad public policy.