If you live in Marion County, Indiana, letting your pet outside alone to go to the bathroom could now land you in the doghouse. Dog owners in Indianapolis and surrounding areas can now face a fine and even lose their pet if they’re caught leaving their dog outside in extreme weather. A revised city ordinance […]

The Michigan Senate will likely be voting soon on a bill that seeks to protect the rights of responsible dog owners in the state by prohibiting municipalities from enacting breed-specific policies. Municipalities would still be permitted to enact other policies and regulations on dog owners, so long as these laws do not target specific breeds. […]

A new law was enacted yesterday by the New York Governor that permits dogs in outdoor areas of eating establishments in the state, as long as certain conditions are met.  The AKC supported this measure, which allows responsible dog owners more opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and socialization with their well-behaved pets.  Under the new […]

The Louisville Metro Council is again considering breed-specific legislation, a limit law and restrictions on breeders and dog owners. This ordinance will have a devastating effect on dog owners and breeders in Louisville and may have a dramatic impact on the Kentuckiana Cluster, the largest dog show cluster in the country. The legislation proposes breed […]

Mayor Jerry Abramson has signed into law major changes to the Louisville Animal Control Ordinance and the news is not good for fanciers, breeders and responsible animal owners. The provisions in the ordinance contain a pet limit, severe restrictions on the keeping of intact animals, licensing of in-home kennels, extreme differential licensing and vague definitions. […]

Maine LD 1239, sponsored by Representative Paul Davis, seeks to clarify, streamline, and promote fair animal welfare laws in Maine. The American Kennel Club (AKC) believes LD 1239 represents an improvement over current Maine law, and joins the Federation of Maine Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners (Maine Federation) in support of LD 1239.  Maine […]

The Governor of Colorado has signed into law new regulations for pet stores that will allow them to continue to operate in the state. As introduced, this bill contained false claims about breeders and inaccurate information that pets from rescues are better for public safety as they are not imported from out of state.  Further, […]

The Missouri House Local Government Committee is scheduled to consider two bills on Thursday, January 27, that would prohibit local municipalities from enacting breed-specific laws in the state. Those who reside or participate in dog events in the state are encouraged to contact the committee members and express your support for these bills.  Let them […]

The State of New York has passed a new law that will require a designated area for hand washing/sanitizing at any place where animals are “kept for the express purpose of viewing, touching, holding, and petting by patrons and visitors”. This area, which must be no more than 50 feet from the exit of the […]

In 2015, numerous new laws passed around the country that were supported by the AKC and will benefit dogs and dog owners.  Here are some highlights: California Assembly Bill 794 enhances penalties for attacking or intentionally injuring a law enforcement dog or horse. Delaware Senate Bill 22 protects the health of dogs by allowing law […]