Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away and it has been a good reminder for us to acknowledge how thankful we are. We are thankful for the ability to see our friends and family again, to be able to travel and go to dog events, and most importantly – we are thankful for YOU! Every year your passion and love for purpose-bred dogs inspires us and fills us with the energy we need to continue into the next year. Last year, we were navigating a “new normal,” but this year we came back stronger than ever!
First and foremost, we are especially grateful for our wonderful GR team, including our newest GR team member, Jacob Hupp. Jacob will serve as the Legislative Analyst/Community Outreach Coordinator for US Central States including Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Jacob is very excited to work with clubs in his states, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to him and introduce yourself.
The AKC National Championship is just around the corner, Member of the GR team will be there with a plethora of pertinent information regarding canine legislation, and to share new information and opportunities through the AKC Political Action Committee. If you are a club member and haven’t made your contribution to the PAC, please consider doing so now. Donors of $25 or more receive tickets for a drawing for exciting prizes including an Impact Crate, tickets to the 2022 Westminster Kennel Club Show, the 2023 AKC National Championship (and hotel), and other exciting prizes. Club members who contribute before December 10 will be recognized in signage at the show.
If you plan on flying down to Orlando, you may want to check out our ‘Pets Flying Cargo’ infographic, for specific airline policy guidelines.
Speaking of travel … With a lot of coverage of new requirements for importing/exporting and traveling with your dog, and the introduction of the Healthy Dog Importation Act (HR 4239/S 2597), we’ve created a map illustrating proposed US importation requirements compared to those of other countries.
AKC Government Relations continues to work to provide you with resources designed to help you effectively communicate with lawmakers. Be sure to check out our Legislative Action Center for new documents on timely issues –like this new fact sheet about the AKC Inspections Program. This is the latest resource to help you introduce AKC to your lawmakers and demonstrate the expertise of AKC and our clubs and our commitment to the health of dogs.
We wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and express our thanks to you for all you do to help protect our sport and our beloved dogs!