Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories
Valdosta, GA – The city of Valdosta, GA held a city council meeting last week and had a discussion on bringing back up, a city-wide ban on retail pet stores. As of the publishing of this report, there has not been a published ordinance, but AKC staff is monitoring and strategizing on outreach to city legislative leaders for input.
Philadelphia, PA – The Philadelphia City Council will soon vote on Bill No. 250989 which would impose a 36-month moratorium on the breeding and the sale or transfer of any dog under 7 months of age within the city to address overcrowding at the city’s shelters. The bill exempts any person or entity holding a valid Pennsylvania Dog Law kennel license, which is required if one keeps, harbors, boards, or transfers a total of 26 or more dogs in a calendar year. The bill would significantly restrict responsible, small-scale, American Kennel Club–affiliated breeders, while failing to address the real sources of shelter crowding. AKC has testified in opposition before the Rules Committee and full Council. The final vote is expected on February 19, 2026.