Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. Arkansas –  An executive order signed by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson extends certain liability protections to businesses that open or remain open during the COVID-19 health emergency.  Among other provisions, persons and their employees, agents, and officers shall be immune from civil liability for damages […]

The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can't help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or introduced in your city or county. We will provide you with resources and […]

Since the inception of dog registries and the shift from dogs as functional livestock, divisions have occurred. I will not add to the debate that will never end, but will expand on the differences in finding dogs for detection roles in law enforcement. You can train many dogs to perform tasks both simple and complex. […]

Since the inception of dog registries and the shift from dogs as functional livestock, divisions have occurred. I will not add to the debate that will never end, but will expand on the differences in finding dogs for detection roles in law enforcement. You can train many dogs to perform tasks both simple and complex. […]

In June, staff of the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission recommended that the state’s Licensed Breeders Program should be eliminated due to fundamental flaws with the law that created it, the program’s ineffectiveness, and significant operational costs.  The Sunset Advisory Commission will meet on Thursday, August 20, to accept testimony on recommendations to eliminate 15 regulatory […]

Local/Other: Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in U.S. Territories The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can't help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or […]

State Issues: News from the State Capitols  Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking. California – Senate Bill 573 would require all shelters to scan a dog for a microchip and would require all shelters and rescues to not release a dog – even back to its owner – without […]

What’s New from AKC Government Relations It’s safe to say this summer has turned out to be different than any other before. Whether you turn on the news, social media, or talk to your friends and family, COVID-19 continues to be top of mind. While you may assume that this has caused a hiatus on […]

Big, brave, and beautiful, Great Danes hold a special place in our hearts. But despite their larger-than-life persona, this giant breed has a relatively short life span. Why Are Great Dane Life Spans So Short? For such big dogs, Great Danes sure get the short end of the stick when it comes to longevity. Great […]

Last night, the New York Senate passed a bill which will prohibit retail pet stores from selling any dogs or cats.  Instead, they would only be allowed to “showcase” animals available for adoption from a shelter, rescue, or adoption agency. Senate Bill 4234 now goes to the Assembly Agriculture Committee.  Session could be wrapping up […]