Yesterday evening, the New Haven (CT) Board of Alders decided to delay consideration of changes to their animal ordinance, providing the Board with more time to review letters its received, including those from AKC, local clubs, and concerned residents. As currently worded, the resolution would establish breeder and litter permits, charge city personnel with evaluating what dogs can be bred, and mandate proof of parvovirus vaccinations among other changes. AKC opposes breeder and litter permits, and has serious concerns that the proposal would substitute the judgment of owners and their veterinarians—those best situated to make decisions for dogs—with those of city officials.
The American Kennel Club is grateful the Board did not yet finalize a vote on the matter and looks forward to be of assistance before its next scheduled meeting on October 1st.
AKC’s Government Relations Department (AKC GR) will continue to provide updates on New Haven, and all pending Connecticut legislation, as appropriate. For more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.