The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can’t help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or introduced in your city or county. We will provide you with resources and tools to help defend the rights of dog owners and support responsible dog ownership in your community.
Here are some examples of the local issues currently being addressed by AKC GR:
Indiana, Carmel – The Carmel Town Council has introduced a proposal that will propose a mandatory spay/neuter law for all dogs over 6 months of age, unless the owner possesses a breeder’s permit. A veterinary exemption may be obtained for dogs to not be sterilized, but all dogs must be sterilized by nine months of age, unless a permit is obtained. The ordinance was formally introduced on December 19, then sent to a committee for review. AKC GR is working closely with the Indiana Purebred Dog Alliance to educate about spay/neuter issues, address concerns and provide more effective alternatives to this proposal.
Louisiana, Ouachita Parish – Local fanciers have reported that the Ouachita Parish Animal Shelter Citizens’ Advisory Committee is likely to recommend a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance to the Parish’s Police Jury. The AKC and a multitude of organizations oppose mandatory spay/neuter. AKC GR continues to work with local fanciers in opposition to this issue.
Tennessee, Montgomery County – The Montgomery County council is considering extensive changes to the county animal control ordinance. Among these are pet licensing with higher fees for unaltered dogs, breeder licensing, and restrictions on kenneling and tethering. The proposal remains in committee pending revisions.