The Burke County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, June 20, on several amendments to the county's kennel laws.

The New Jersey Assembly could consider a bill as soon as Thursday, June 22, that allows for the seizure and permanent forfeiture of animals taken pursuant to an allegation 'but without a conviction'of animal cruelty.

Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced changes to the application process to import a dog inadequately immunized against rabies. Effective August 18, 2017, an importer must apply online for a Permit to Import a Dog Inadequately Immunized Against Rabies at least 10 days before arriving into the United States with the dog.

At its meeting on Wednesday, June 28, 2017, the Hillsborough County Animal Advisory Committee is scheduled to discuss an ordinance that would regulate, set requirements for, and establish fees for dog training businesses and dog trainers in the county.

A bill is quickly advancing through the Illinois House of Representatives that would increase the instances in which an animal is seized on suspicion of cruelty. This may result in more Illinois dog owners losing their animals even if they are ultimately found not guilty or charges are dropped.

The Massachusetts' General Court's Joint Judiciary Committee is scheduled to consider two bills of great concern to the American Kennel Club at its Tuesday, July 18, hearing. H.2290 seeks to change the legal status of pets from personal property to companion animals, while H.852 seeks to establish an animal abuse registry and impose certain additional […]

It is imperative that all California residents contact the members of the Committee and their state senator and express opposition to AB 485, which is scheduled for consideration by the State Senate Committee on Business, Professions, and Economic Development on Monday, July 17. The bill seeks to prohibit pet retailers from selling pets (including dogs, […]

AKC has learned that the Washoe County Commission (Nevada) is considering a proposal that would require anyone who wishes to own more than three dogs to apply for a variance permit and have their dogs sterilized.

AKC Government Relations is pleased to share the latest issue of our In Session Congressional newsletter, which is sent to members of Congress and staff. This issue highlights our Capitol Hill celebration of National Purebred Dog Day, which included a reception where members of Congress, staff and guests could meet purebred dogs representing each breed […]

APHIS proposes to implement changes to 'better promote sustained compliance with the AWA, reduce licensing fees and burdens, and strengthen existing safeguards that prevent individuals and businesses who are unfit to hold a license from obtaining a licensing or working with regulated animals.'

AKC Government Relations just learned that California Assembly Bill 485 is scheduled for consideration and possible vote by the California Senate on Monday, August 28. Because this may be the last chance to express opposition to the bill, it is imperative that concerned Californians contact their state senators and express opposition to the proposal now.

In addition to bills to be considered by the Joint Judiciary Committee, the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture is also scheduled to consider several dog-related bills on Tuesday, September 12.

AB 485 will be sent to Governor Jerry Brown for his signature or veto upon the Assembly's agreement to include the Senate's amendments in the proposal. It is important that all concerned California residents contact Gov. Brown and urge him to veto AB 485.

The Guilford County (NC) Commission is holding a public hearing on Thursday, September 21, on a proposal that would require cat and dog owners to spay/neuter their dogs by the age of 6 months or pay a $200 fee for an intact animal permit. The proposal offer a few exceptions, however AKC believes that the […]

The Guilford County (NC) Commission is holding a public hearing this afternoon, Thursday, September 21, at 5PM, on a proposal that would require cat and dog owners to spay/neuter their dogs by the age of 6 months or pay a $200 fee for an intact animal permit.

In August, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued a public request for comment on potential changes to the Animal Welfare Act's (AWA) licensing requirements.

Earlier this week, AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) provided an action alert on two Massachusetts bills of major concern, House Bill 1080 and Senate Bill 1155, in preparation for their committee hearing next week. Since then, additional bills have been scheduled for consideration next week.

The Clark County, Nevada Board of Commissioners is expected to consider changes to its animal control ordinances at its Tuesday, October 17th meeting. The proposal seeks to restrict sales of dogs and cats at pet stores to those obtained from an animal shelter or rescues organization. Area residents are strongly encouraged to contact Clark County […]

Last week, the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Animal Care division announced an extension of the comment period for public input on possible updates to Animal Welfare Act licensing requirements.

Ba Sammy Jo UD PCDX BN GN RAE owned by Brittany J. Allen of Decorah, IA Sammy Jo is a four-year-old All American adopted from the Humane Society of Northeast Iowa in the summer of 2013. Sammy trains in multiple k9 sports and recently finished her RAE and Utility Dog titles. Her next obedience goal […]