The AKC Government Relations Department is committed to protecting your right to own, breed, and exhibit the dog of your choice. This advocacy is essential to the future of dog ownership in our country. Among the many measures that AKC is currently engaged with is AB 485 in California. This problematic proposal calls for a state-wide ban on the sale of purpose- bred pets at pet retailers, and instead requires pet retailers to only sell pets they obtain from shelters or rescue distributors. The proposal is problematic for many reasons: It limits individual freedom of choice; promotes the sale of pets from unregulated sources over those that come from regulated known sources; eliminates consumer protections for puppy purchasers, and drastically reduces the opportunity for future pet owners to obtain a pet that is the right pet for their lifestyle.
The AKC is fighting to protect your rights – and we need you to join us! Whether on the federal, state, or local level, you can make a difference for your dogs. Check out our recent blog for parent clubs on ways they and their members can get involved and make an impact. Another great way to learn how you can get involved and make a difference on behalf of dogs is to attend an AKC Legislative Conference. AKC GR regional conferences empower local dog owners and breeders to learn how to confidently and successfully advocate on behalf of their right to own and breed dogs. Keep watching to see when we are coming to your area.
AKC is committed to helping dogs and dog owners during times of natural disaster. Check out www.akc.org for information on the efforts AKC and AKC Reunite made to help victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and how you can help. In this issue, we provide information on federal and local laws and regulations to assist those in the affected areas.
This month, we also had to say goodbye to a dedicated dog owner, breeder, exhibitor, delegate, judge, and friend. Jan Gardner was a tremendous advocate for responsible dog ownership and the rights of responsible dog owners, and her presence will be greatly missed. You can read more about her legacy here.
AKC GR continues to monitor legislation across the country, and you can see highlights of what is happening in your area by checking out our legislative updates in this issue. If you hear of something in your state or community, please contact us and we will work with you to help protect your rights as responsible dog owners, breeders, and exhibitors. Thank you for partnering with us!