None of us will ever forget the devastation caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita last year and the tireless efforts of the fancy to give generously of their time, money (more than $1 million was donated to the AKC Companion Animal Recovery Canine Support and Relief Fund) and resources to aid those animals in need.  […]

The Indianapolis City Council has decided not to pursue breed-specific legislation. Councilwoman Sherron Franklin will be proposing a stricter dangerous dog ordinance that requires dogs that have been determined to be dangerous to be confined by a fence or specified structure and imposes a minimum $500 fine for violators. AKC thanks the fanciers and concerned […]

Ear Cropping and Tail Docking Bill Amended A. 11242, the New York State Assembly bill to prohibit ear cropping and tail docking, has been amended. It is imperative that New York fanciers and concerned dog owners contact their Assemblymember and members of the Agriculture Committee immediately to oppose this legislation.   The new version of […]

This year as we gear up for the fourth annual AKC ® Responsible Dog Ownership Day (AKC RDO Day) I am pleased to report about some new opportunities for clubs, state federations, and pet-related organizations as they plan their AKC RDO Day events in communities across the country. Publicly promoting responsible dog ownership takes time, initiative and […]

AB 2110 Fails to Pass Committee Assembly Bill 2110 was held yesterday in the Appropriations Committee Suspense File and can not move forward. The bill would have prohibited field trials in the state of California. Congratulations to all fanciers and field trial participants who worked to oppose this measure.     California Bill Would Outlaw […]

The AKC and Buena Vista Home Entertainment Team Up to Educate Viewers About Responsible Dog Ownership   The American Kennel Club® and Buena Vista Home Entertainment announced a joint initiative today to help inform viewers about the joys and responsibilities of owning a dog. This partnership is a result of two highly successful films featuring […]

This year as we gear up for the fourth annual AKC ® Responsible Dog Ownership Day (AKC RDO Day) I am pleased to report about some new opportunities for clubs, state federations, and pet-related organizations as they plan their AKC RDO Day events in communities across the country.    Publicly promoting responsible dog ownership takes time, initiative […]

The Berkeley Citizens Humane Commission will meet again on Wednesday, May 17th to discuss a proposal to require mandatory spay/neuter of all “pit bulls.” It is vital that responsible dog owners and concerned breeders attend this meeting. Fanciers are also encouraged to contact their representative on the Berkeley City Council to oppose this measure. The […]

The Los Angeles County Supervisors will take a final vote on the proposed mandatory spay/neuter ordinance at their meeting this Tuesday, May 2nd. Dog owners wishing to breed or simply maintain an intact dog will have to pay a $60 per dog fee and meet a host of restrictive criteria. It is urgent that fanciers […]

While many in the fancy focused on federal legislation pertaining to canine welfare last year, a threat to our rights and privileges as dog lovers has been gaining momentum at an alarming rate across the country - breed-specific legislation. In 2005, the AKC tracked 106 breed-specific measures. This year, through March alone, 55 measures have […]