In May 2023, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) introduced new regulations regarding the importation of dogs and cats, causing considerable concern among breeders and pet owners. The changes, particularly the increase in the minimum import age for puppies, have raised questions about their impact on low-risk imports, especially for those participating in events across the U.S.-Canadian border. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has provided updates to help dog enthusiasts navigate these changes. The AKC is working alongside the Canadian Kennel Club, sportsmen, other dog enthusiasts and travel industry representatives to voice concerns and request a delay in the rules’ implementation.
AKC appreciates some recent updates to the rule that will streamline travel and importing of dogs older than 6 months from rabies-free or low risk countries. However, AKC remains concerned that these regulations could unfairly burden responsible breeders and enthusiasts who often bring in dogs at younger ages for the purposes of bonding and assessing their qualities. Moreover, the AKC advocates for recognizing the difference in risk between healthy, vaccinated dogs from low-risk countries and those from higher-risk regions. As the new rules approaches its effective date, the AKC encourages individuals to express their concerns to lawmakers and the CDC, pushing for a more balanced approach that considers the unique circumstances surrounding private pet imports.
We thank Senator Susan Collins for her leadership in supporting U.S.-Canada dog enthusiasts, and encourages impacted dog owners to reach out to CDC and their members of Congress.
AKC Government Relations continues to work around the country to help club members and breeders advocate for their dogs and our sport. It is important for you as a dog owner to also take an active role in advocating for your dogs. We encourage you to review our recommendations of five things to do this summer to protect your dogs and your rights, and to share this with fellow club members and dog owners.
Taking the time to work with your lawmakers and continued persistence does pay off, as an organization of dog owners learned in New York where after decades of advocacy they were successful in getting a bill passed to allow dogs in state parks.
Also in the past month, AKC Government Relations department hosted a legislative conference on the West Coast. Dozens of federation leaders and club members from across the Western region to Las Vegas, Nevada, for a regional legislative conference. Attendees enjoyed networking with other club members and dog enthusiasts in the region and learning about issues impacting dogs, breeders, and events in the Western states.
We look forward to continuing to work with you, and encourage you to review the federal, state, and local updates in this issue for the latest information on legislative proposals impacting you. For more updates on the CDC and everything Government Relations, please visit www.akcgr.org.