Legislative Alerts

The California Legislature has returned from its summer break and continues to consider a variety of legislative issues which could impact animals and animal owners. Bills currently advancing include the following: HR 63: Supporting Working and Service Dogs – This resolution supported by the AKC declares September as Service Dog Awareness Month and recognizes the […]

Late last week, President Biden signed into law the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers Veterans Therapy (PAWS for Veterans Therapy) Act.  HR 1448/S 613 is a ground-breaking measure that recognizes the importance of service dogs in assisting veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and other mental disorders […]

Today, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it is dedicating $300 million in funding from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act (i.e., federal law enacted to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, including the public health and economic impacts) to (1) conduct surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 (i.e., the virus that causes COVID-19) and other emerging […]

Last month, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) proposed reissuing a rule to require that breeder/dealers, research facilities, intermediate handlers, carriers, and other animal enterprises subject to USDA licensing establish emergency/contingency planning in the event of a natural or manmade disaster or other business disruption. Under the proposed rule, […]

On August 17, Governor Chris Sununu signed two animal bills of high importance to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and New Hampshire Dog Owners of the Granite State (NH DOGS) into law.  Our deepest appreciation is extended to Representative Howard Pearl, Chairman of the House Committee on Environment and Agriculture, as these successes would not […]

Yesterday, a resolution was introduced in the California Assembly to recognize September as Service Dog Appreciation Month to honor service and working dogs, and declare “that Californians are grateful for the service and dedication these loyal companions provide for their owners and communities.” AKC encourages California dog owners to thank the author for introducing HR […]

On August 7, the Texas Legislature entered its second Special Session of 2021. Governor Abbott’s proclamation to convene the special session identified 17 agenda items for the legislature to consider, none of which involve dog-related issues.  Nevertheless House Bill 17 and Senate Bill 78, relating to the tethering of dogs, have been filed. Both HB […]

The Horry County (SC) County Council will hold the first of three votes on amendments to the county animal ordinance on Tuesday, August 17, 2021. Owners of pets and “large animals” are urged to review the proposed ordinance and express their concerns to council members. The numerous provisions that would affect dog owners include the […]

Amendments to the county animal ordinance were discussed at a special called meeting of the Henderson County (KY) Fiscal Court on August 9, 2021. Among other expected provisions, the proposed ordinance will address dangerous animals and the safety of dogs left enclosed in hot cars. The ordinance was not finalized as of August 11, 2021. […]

The California Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled to consider two bills on August 16 that have the potential to impact some dog owners.  Those who wish to comment are encouraged to reach out directly to the committee (scroll down for more information). The committee is expected to consider the following legislation: Assembly Bill 468 – […]