U.S. Federal/Regulations – On February 17, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released a Request for Information, noting that scientific advances, new information and new concepts regarding the care and handling of dogs make it appropriate for the agency to seek scientific information and comment from the public on Standards for the Care of Breeding Female Dogs & Exercise and Socialization of Dogs. Specifically, USDA APHIS is seeking information on: 1) appropriate care for breeding females at dog breeding facilities, and 2) exercise and socialization of dogs subject to the federal Animal Welfare Act. It should be noted that such requests often precede a proposed change in the rule implementing federal regulations. AKC encourages breeders, scientists and other experts to provide thoughtful, data- and experience-driven expertise and information to USDA prior to the March 19 deadline. Read more.