Help is needed again in Louisville! In the wake a of public outcry about a proposed breed-specific dangerous dog ordinance, the Louisville Metro Council formed a task force to study issues relating to dangerous dogs and changes to the animal control ordinance. Unfortunately, the latest draft from the task force includes breed-specific language, possible fee […]

March 11, 2016 AKC Government Relations is pleased to report that this bill failed to pass prior to the close of the legislative session. We thank all those who reached out to their legislators throughout this session.  March 10, 2016 The Utah Senate may soon consider Senate Bill 253 which would amend the state’s tethering […]

Last year the Los Angeles Times published a multi-year investigation into fraudulent business practices regarding the importation of dogs into the state for resale. In response, three bills were introduced in the State Legislature that seek to address the issues addressed in the article. All three bills have passed the Legislature and are on their […]

On Tuesday, April 16, the California Assembly Business and Professions Committee held a hearing for AB 2425, a bill seeking to address concerns in animal shelters and change the definition of a dog breeder in California code to encompass hobbyists. No vote was taken during the hearing and at this time AKC believes the Business […]

Next week, the California Senate Judiciary Committee will be considering both the “Dog and Cat Welfare” and dog trainer disclosure bills.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) is currently neutral on these bills, both of which contain some of AKC’s proposed amendments. Those who wish may contact the committee to express your opinion on these bills […]

The New York General Assembly is heading into what is likely the last week of session for the year.  While most bills impacting dog owners are no longer moving this year, bills that would essentially ban the veterinary practice of bark softening (“debarking”) and significantly restrict pet choice and breed rescue are still moving. New […]

The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations team has just been made aware that the Broward County Commission will discuss amendments to the county’s existing breeder permit including requiring permit holders to submit to warrantless inspections of their private homes. The AKC strongly encourages dog owners and breeders to attend tomorrow’s hearing or to contact the […]

Today, the American Kennel Club (AKC) submitted comments to the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding its proposed regulation updates that would redefine “service animal”  for the purpose of air travel. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in air travel and requires […]

An overreaching proposed ordinance that seeks to place restrictions on pet breeders and on individuals who transfer/give away/sell pets is on the tentative agenda of the DeKalb County Committee of the Whole, for Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 9:00am. Click here for meeting information. It is unclear if this item will receive action on that […]

In celebration of dogs with good manners at home and in the community, beginning January 1, 2013, passing the AKC®’s Canine Good Citizen® test can be recognized as an official American Kennel Club® title for all dogs. Since the program began in 1989, the CGC® has been considered an “award.” Dogs that passed the 10-step […]