Legislative Alerts

Today, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s (APHIS) Animal Care Division provided an update on its inspection protocols for the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) licensees. APHIS Animal Care is continuing to conduct inspections when it becomes aware of serious welfare concerns.  Routine inspections are being limited based on Animal Care’s risk assessments […]

The COVID-19 outbreak and rapidly evolving policy responses are having a significant impact on the lives of dog owners around the country. The AKC Government Relations Department remains committed to keeping you up to date on the latest information impacting you and your dogs. Our new COVID-19 resources page in the AKC Legislative Action Center […]

On March 23, the State of Washington declared certain businesses as “essential” as part of its Stay at Home, Stay Healthy initiative in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. AKC appreciates that veterinary services and animal feed business have been considered essential to ensure the care of animals at this time. The American Kennel Club has requested […]

Late last week, the United States’ Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published new technical, medical, and behavioral standards recommendations for explosive detection canines. These standards are a response to legislation  (HR 4577 - the Domestic Explosives Canine Capacity Building Act) that the American Kennel Club (AKC) worked to advance in 2017 and 2018.  That legislation directed […]

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many states are shutting down all but what they deem to be essential services and businesses. Over the last week, AKC has reached out to government officials and also asked for your help in ensuring that pet supplies, pet care, and pet services are ruled “essential” (exempt) businesses so that […]

Last week both the President of Senate and the Speaker of the House signed SB 272 which now heads to the governor. The governor could take action on this bill very soon.  Those who reside or participate in dog events in Virginia are encouraged to contact Governor Northam to respectfully express any concerns or comments […]

In an ongoing effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus, this morning Massachusetts Governor Baker ordered all non-essential businesses in Massachusetts to close beginning at 12pm on Tuesday, March 24, 2020.  The order is effective until April 7, 2020.  A stay at home advisory is also being issued by the state’s Department of Public […]

The State of New York has clarified that businesses relating to the care of companion animals are declared essential and will be exempt from the shut-down order now in effect in the state to address concerns with the COVID-19 virus. On Sunday, March 22, a clarification was issued by the New York Department of Agriculture […]

The Washington State Legislature has adjourned for the year, as originally scheduled. Before adjournment, a significantly amended version of Senate Bill 6300 was passed.  This bill’s original version contained language that attempted to define animal pain to establish grounds for criminal charges for animal abuse and neglect. However, this terminology was broad and open to […]

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many states are shutting down all but what they deem to be essential services and businesses – and AKC is asking for your help in ensuring our dogs continue to get the supplies and services they need and deserve. The American Kennel Club (AKC) joined this week with the Pet […]