Numerous state and local measures have included nearly identical legislative findings that are inaccurate, offensive to breeders, and directly reference “HSUS puppy mill estimates.” Such findings are designed to limit debate from the start, undermine alternative sources of information and put opponents on the defensive. While legislative findings are not actual laws, inaccurate, pejorative or […]

The American Kennel Club is pleased to announce that Dr. Arnold L. Goldman, DVM, MPH and the Connecticut Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners have been named winners of the 2015 Bebout Memorial Award for Leadership in Canine Legislation. Together with the Connecticut Federation, of which he is a trustee, Dr. Goldman and […]

By Connie Koehler Led by members of the California Federation of Dog Clubs (CFODC), a dedicated group of Whittier, CA, dog fanciers took on City Hall and proved that it can be done.  As a result of their efforts, the Whittier City Council soundly rejected the mandatory spay/neuter (MSN) provisions of Los Angeles County’s Title […]

The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations department is pleased to announce that one of our most popular materials, Be Your Dog’s Best Friend…And a Good Neighbor, is now available in Spanish. This flyer is perfect for breeders and veterinarians to provide to new pet owners and you might even use it to educate your neighbor in a […]

In New York City on Saturday, dozens of legislators and legislative staff had the opportunity to meet with thousands of dog breeders, owners, and dog lovers at the annual AKC Meet the Breeds event held in conjunction with the Westminster Kennel Club. This event, attended by tens of thousands from the general public, allows the […]

United States Senator Debbie Stabenow (Michigan) was honored with an AKC Legislator of the Year Award during her visit to the Detroit Kennel Club (DKC) show on June 20.  Senator Stabenow, who visited the show with members of her family, toured the event with DKC Show Chair Chris Berg, chatted with constituent dog enthusiasts and […]

On September 27, 2016, the Palm Beach Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and final vote on proposed amendments to the animal control ordinance. The provisions of the ordinance will be applicable to all incorporated and unincorporated areas of Palm Beach County, unless a municipal exemption applies. Although the proposed ordinance includes […]

AKC Government Relations has just learned that the recently-formed Ouachita Parish Animal Shelter Citizens’ Advisory Committee will consider mandatory spay/neuter and breeder licensing recommendations at its meeting tonight.  It is imperative that all concerned Ouachita Parish residents, members of AKC-affiliated clubs, and fanciers and enthusiasts in the area appear at tonight’s public meeting and express […]

On Monday, June 20, a committee of Stamford, Connecticut’s Board of Representatives will accept public comment on proposed changes to Chapter 111 of the City’s Code of Ordinances.   Since the proposal was first considered, several changes have been made at the behest of resident responsible dog owners.  However, the proposal still seeks to create breeder […]

The Puerto Rico Senate Health and Nutrition Commission will hold a public hearing on P.S. 1631 on Tuesday, June 21.  P.S. 1631 would mandate the sterilization of all dogs in Puerto Rico, which punishes responsible owners and dog breeders and could endanger a dog’s health, while doing nothing to address the true issue. Talking Points: […]