Despite opposition from the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Massachusetts Federation of Dog Clubs (MassFed), and the Congressional Sportsmen Foundation (CSF), and an ongoing global health pandemic, two identical Massachusetts bills have again been granted extended time for legislative committee consideration - until May 8, 2020. Massachusetts dog laws already provide for civil fines and […]

From giving unconditional love to greeting us like rock stars when we get home, dogs bring an overwhelming amount of happiness into our lives. Here ere are some ways you can show your canine companion just how much you appreciate him. Provide Appropriate Exercise Exercise isn’t just good for your dog’s physical health, it boosts […]

1st AKC Rally Champion: RACH Chloe Wild Child UDX OM1 BN VER RM3 RAE3 SWN SCNE SCA SIA SEA THD CGC TKA & Nancy Nelson of Manorville, NY  A rescue group rescued Chloe from a kill shelter as a puppy. “When I adopted her, she was 6 months old and her rescue foster mom told […]

According to Governor Brian Kemp’s staff, an executive order will be issued tomorrow (4/3/20) that is anticipated to include shelter-in-place requirements.  Georgia pet owners are urged to contact the governor’s office today and politely request that veterinarians and pet food/care businesses be designated as essential businesses/services and allowed to continue to operate subject to safe […]

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 […]

As many pet owners know, a bored dog with energy to burn can be a handful. One secret to a well-behaved pup is making sure they have enough appropriate mental and physical stimulation every day. Otherwise, they may find their own forms of entertainment, such as figuring out how the cupboard door works or shredding […]

In these unprecedented times, the American Kennel Club Government Relations Department remains committed to ensuring that you and your dogs are protected. Although we have taken our operation remote, we are still available by phone (919-816-3720) and email (doglaw@akc.org), and we will continue to bring you the most up to date information, including whether you […]

State Issues: News from the State Capitols Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Visit the 2020 Legislation Tracking page and click on your state to get the latest updates on state bills monitored by the AKC. Alabama – HB 209 seeks to authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in […]

From Our Nation's Capitol AKC Government Relations team continues to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2020 Legislation Tracking page and click on “US Fed” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC. Highlights of issues we are currently addressing on the federal […]

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 […]