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. Colorado – HB 20-1084 would place further restrictions on breeders, and restrict pet choice and consumer protection […]

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 […]

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 introduced […]

What’s New from AKC Government Relations This issue of Taking Command highlights major issues and emerging trends in legislation over the past year.  In 2019, the Government Relations department tracked more bills than ever before. Success in protecting the rights of dog owners and ensuring the well-being of dogs is achieved through the hard work of […]

AKC Government Relations Reflects on Record 2019 Legislative Year 2019 was a record year for AKC Government Relations, with the team tracking over 2,300 bills on the federal, state and local levels across all 50 states. This marks a significant increase, with over 300 more bills than 2018, and the most bills ever tracked by […]

A bill has been introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives that would place further regulations on breeders, and restrict pet choice and consumer protections in the state. Colorado residents are strongly encouraged to contact your State Representative, as well as the House Rural Affairs, today and express your concerns with House Bill 20-1084. (Scroll […]

A bill has been introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives that would place further regulations on breeders, and restrict pet choice and consumer protection in the state. Supporters of House Bill 20-1084, known as the “Humane Pet Act”, are claiming this bill will protect animals in Colorado.  However, there are numerous concerns, including: False […]

The Lake County (IL) Board is considering a resolution tomorrow (Tuesday, January 14) that would prohibit retail pet stores from selling any dogs or cats.  Instead, they would only be allowed to provide animals from shelters or rescues. Even if you do not personally provide dogs to pet stores, this resolution could have significant implications […]

On Thursday, January 16, 2020, multiple animal bills will be reviewed by the New Hampshire House Committee on Environment and Agriculture.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) strongly encourages those who reside in New Hampshire to contact the committee to express significant concerns with three bills. HB 1627 seeks to establish a statewide database of all […]

So, you've decided to rescue a dog. Now what? Between the internet, social media, and suggestions from friends, there is a bewildering sea of options out there. This guide will help you figure out if rescue is the right choice for you, how to know which dog rescue groups are reputable, and how to choose […]