Over the past few weeks, the American Kennel Club Government Relations department has been handling a large number of due process-related legislation. Whether it is called ‘Bond for Care’, ‘Animal...

*This article was originally published in the October 2022 Issue of ShowSight Magazine. It is reprinted with permission.To err is human. But in just about any endeavor, minor errors or the...

AKC Government Relations VP, Sheila Goffe, addressing the attendees on the first day of the conference.In January, AKC Government Relations held its first in-person legislative conference since the...

The American Kennel Club Government Relations department is pleased to welcome our newest staff member, Bob Rilling-Smith. Bob is the new Legislative Analyst/Community Outreach Coordinator for U.S...

The American Kennel Club welcomes the introduction of the Healthy Dog Importation Act of 2023  in the United States Senate.AKC is grateful for the continuing and bipartisan leadership...

Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and his daughters visit the Komondors.More than two dozen lawmakers and legislative staff joined over 20,000 members of the general public at the Javits Center in New York...

Recently, AKC Government Relations staff member Jacob Hupp traveled to Topeka, Kansas to participate in the Kansas Pet Professionals (KPP) Day at the Capitol. AKC GR set up a booth at the event...

AKC Government Relations’ Stacey Ober, New England Regional Manager, representing AKC GR at the 2023 Massachusetts Municipal Association Annual Meeting and Trade Show.The Massachusetts Municipal...

Chart: Federal Bills 2022, by Category2022 was another busy year for the AKC Government Relations Department (GR). The team monitored approximately 2,400 pieces of canine legislation and some 680...

 The AKC Detection Dog Task Force is pleased to announce a new newsletter: the AKC Detection Dog Bulletin. The Detection Dog Bulletin is a quarterly newsletter for those who want to learn...

Legislative expert and American Kennel Club Delegate Michael Houchard was awarded the AKC’s Bebout Memorial Award for Legislative Leadership at the AKC Delegates quarterly meeting in December in...

 Robustness in Training Part 1 was so well received, the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) enthusiastically welcomed Jay Crafter of Invictus K9 back for Part 2!In part one, Jay shared his...

 The AKC Detection Dog Task Force is excited to continue our discussion with Jay Crafter of Invictus K9 on his experience in training working dogs for conservation efforts in Africa...

*This article was originally published in the September 2022 Issue of ShowSight Magazine. It is reprinted with permission.Explosive detection dogs play a crucial role in U.S. safety and security at...

 On Tuesday, Congressional lawmakers released the final version of a must-pass $1.7 trillion fiscal year 2023 federal spending bill that provides funding for the U.S. Government. The agreement...

AKC PAC Board Vice Chair, Mr. Christopher Sweetwood, drawing the winning ticket.From June until Sunday, December 19, 2022, donors to the AKC Political Action Committee (AKC PAC) were entered in...

 The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) was pleased to welcome Jay Crafter of Invictus K9 in a recent discussion of his extraordinary work in training working dogs for conservation efforts in...

When meeting with lawmakers, AKC GR and clubs are often asked, “What is AKC doing to help dogs?” Discussing the AKC’s Inspections program is an invaluable tool to demonstrate a very tangible way...

*This article was originally published in the August 2022 issue of ShowSight Magazine. It is reprinted with permission.Good laws protect dogs and uphold the rights of responsible owners. But...

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently issued a national terrorism advisory, warning of heightened holiday season threats — at the same time as federal agencies are experiencing a shortage...

*This article was originally published in the July 2022 issue of ShowSight Magazine. It is reprinted with permission. Any regular reader of these pages, or member of a dog club that has a...

For the second consecutive year, the American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) participated in the Virginia Associations of Counties (VACo) Annual Conference as one of the nearly...

Recently, The Kennel Club (England) (TKC) asked for Scottish dog owners to respond to a consultation launched by Maurice Golden, a member of the Scottish Parliament for North East Scotland, to...

Last week, AKC Government Relations attended the National League of Cities annual summit in Kansas City, Missouri, where thousands of mayors, city councilmembers, and city managers and staff from...

Last Friday, a Norwegian appeals court rendered judgment in the appeal by the Norwegian Kennel Club (NKK) from a February district court decision that banned the breeding of Bulldogs and Cavalier...

 The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) hosted an informational booth at the 48th Annual Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo) Conference and Exposition on November...

AKC Government Relations (GR) recently surveyed its grassroots contacts to understand how it may better communicate with them about important legislative issues.  The survey period started in...

 The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently released a report on the health and welfare of dogs in federal working dog programs.  The report, Working Dogs: Federal Agencies...

For over 30 years, Karen Strange has advocated for Missouri animal owners.  In 1991, after two years of lobbying, she and Anne Edwards founded the Missouri Federation of Animal Owners (MoFed),...

Last week, the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung published an op-ed by AKC Government Relations Central States Analyst Jacob Hupp. The article clarified AKC’s position on pet choice due to a previous...

Recently, AKC Government Relation Central States Analyst Jacob Hupp traveled to Norman, Oklahoma, to speak at the Great Dane Club of America national specialty on legislative hot issues and effective...

Activists Push for Misguided Law Undermining Animal WelfareThe war on dog breeding by animal rights advocates is shifting to Capitol Hill, with activists pushing for misguided, overbroad legislation...

Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in National Pork Producers Council v. Ross. The Pork Producers and the American Farm Bureau Federation, as petitioners, are challenging the...

AKC is pleased to introduce a new Spanish language version of our  Service, Emotional Support, Therapy Dogs… What’s the Difference? one-pager. This  translated version follows the newly...

Kids are typically curious by nature, especially when they see a dog out in public. However, some dogs may be performing life-saving tasks and shouldn’t be approached or distracted; while others may...

You are invited to join the AKC Detection Dog Task Force for our next webinar on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022 at 7:30 PM (ET). The AKC Detection Dog Task Force is pleased to invite you to join us for...

Congressman Jake LaTurner and staff, State Senator Rick Kloos, and representatives from the Office of  Senator Jerry Moran and the Office of Senator Roger Marshall pose for a photo alongside...

The AKC is pleased to announce that the Federation of Maine Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners has been named winner of the Bebout Award for Leadership in Canine Legislation for the second quarter...

Last week, the Mobile Kennel Club (MKC) hosted guests from the Gulf Coast area for a program on current issues in canine legislation. Representatives of clubs in Florida and Mississippi joined MKC...

The American Kennel Club is pleased to support efforts led by Congressmembers Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jason Crow (D- CO), Cori Bush (D-MO.) and more than 25 other members of Congress from both sides of...

Pictured left to right:  Jonathan Stanley (PFDC Legislative Co-Chair), Linda Witouski (PFDC Vice President, PFDC Legislative Chair, PFDC Board of Directors), PA State Rep. David Zimmerman,...

Here at the American Kennel Club, we value all dogs, whether they are purebred or mixed. We recognize the benefits of dog ownership and the way their presence has an impact on daily life. While pets...

In approximately 2 months, voters across the country will head to the polls to choose national, state, and local officials.  These elections can have a significant impact on the rights of...

With election day right around the corner, now is the time to find out where the candidates stand on important canine legislative issues.  To help, AKC GR has updated the Canine Legislation...

Last week, an Oregon appeals court handed down yet another rejection of an animal rights group’s effort to have animals recognized as legal persons. Background Five years ago, a horse in...

Recently, AKC Government Relations Legislative Analyst and Community Outreach Coordinator Charley Hall attended the annual Pennsylvania Animal Welfare & Safety (PAWS) Pet Breeder’s Expo in...

Florida Association of Kennel Clubs President Judy Seltrecht welcomes delegates. Photo courtesy Mark Driggers and FAKC. The Florida Association of Kennel Clubs (FAKC) welcomed six new member...

AKC Board of Directors member, Dr. Carmen Battaglia, welcoming attendees to the conference on opening night. After a two-year pandemic-related hiatus, the AKC Detection Dog Task Force resumed...

Read the Op Ed here: Terrorism experts, dog breeders gather to reverse shortage of domestic bomb sniffing dogs

Rep. Juan Fernandez-Barquin (FL) with StoneyThis year’s AKC booth at ALEC featured state legislators, dogs, and sticky rollers. Recently, the American Kennel Club Government Relations (AKC GR)...

Last week, thousands of state legislators and staff from across the country attended the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) annual summit, in Denver, Colorado. Once again, the AKC...

*This article was originally published in the May 2022 edition of ShowSight Magazine. It is reprinted with permission. The most radical animal rights groups advocate violence to achieve...

PCKC Members in Kingstown, Rhode Island July 31, 2022, with Representative David Bennett, Judge Nena Dee, and BIS GCHS CH COLLINA D'ORO SOLO UN BACIO.On Sunday, July 31, Rhode Island State...

Recently, the National Association of Counties (NACo) held their 2022 Annual Conference in Adams County, Colorado. Charley Hall, AKC Government Relations Legislative Analyst/Community Outreach...

Press Release: The American Kennel Club Receives Leashes Of Leadership Award (click to view press release)For more information on Service Dog Pass, please click here. For more information on...

 Read the July Taking Command here!

AKC Government Relations Legislative Analyst and Community Outreach Coordinator, Jacob Hupp recently deployed to his new geographic territory, which includes Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska and New...

With elections looming and many states holding shorter sessions, the first half of 2022 was an intense, hurried pace for AKC Government Relations and our clubs and federations.  In the...

 Join the American Kennel Club at the fourth AKC National Detection Dog ConferenceAugust 23 – 25, 2022Sheraton Imperial Conference Center, Durham, NCThe AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) is...

The first six months of 2022 were incredibly busy for Government Relations, with over 2,000 bills being tracked in 46 states (four states did not meet in 2022).  AKC GR was pleased to partner...

Recently, the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the World Cat Federation (WCF) announced their agreement to work together “to jointly represent the well-understood interests of dog and...

 Each year, the AKC Government Relations Department (AKC GR) tracks thousands of bills across the country with the potential to impact our dogs, our breeding programs and our sport. It is...

AKC Legislative Analyst and Community Outreach Coordinator for Texas and US Central States Jacob Hupp Staffing the Government Relations BoothThe AKC Government Relations (GR) team was in Dallas for...

Earlier this month, the New Jersey Supreme Court held that the common law “rescue doctrine” does not apply to a person attempting to rescue a pet.  The rescue doctrine says that if a rescuer is...

 Earlier this week, the New York Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court, rejected the latest attempt of an animal rights group to secure legal rights for animals.  In the case, the...

 The AKC Detection Dog Task Force has been pleased to present several webinars over the past 18 months to encourage the breeding and development of homegrown hero dogs that can achieve the...

For more than 135 years, the American Kennel Club® (AKC) has been America’s leading authority on all things dog and the premier resource for dog lovers. The AKC is a not-for-profit club of clubs...

This weekend marked the unofficial start of summer.  This means more time outdoors, more travel, and for many it includes spending time outside with their dogs.  Lawmakers and law...

Today, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially announced an extension and modification of the July 2021 temporary suspension of the importation of dogs from...

For the first time, the American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) participated in the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) and the Pennsylvania State...

You are invited to join the AKC Detection Dog Task Force for our next webinar on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at 7:30 PM (ET).Join the discussion of puppy training as we investigate the processes trainers...

We love our purebred dogs year-round but National Purebred Dog Day (NPDD), on May 1 every year, gives us an official day to celebrate them. National Purebred Dog Day recognizes the pride,...

The American Kennel Club® (AKC) is pleased to name Dr. Tonya Harris, a second-year student at the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law, as the winner of AKC’s...

“He held my hand!” giggled six-year-old Jalen after he received a “pawshake” from a dog just his height. Jalen and his family met dogs from 70 different breeds, spoke with canine experts, and...

Earlier this year, the United Nations Environment Assembly adopted a resolution concerning animal welfare. Hosted by the UN Environment Program, the UN Environment Assembly brings together...

April 26, 2022 – Angela Ferrari, President of NH DOGS, presents painting of a Chinook, the New Hampshire state dog, to Representative Howard Pearl, Chairman of the House Environment and Agriculture...

The American Kennel Club Political Action Committee (AKC PAC), which is legally separate from the AKC, plays an important role in protecting the rights of responsible dog owners and purebred...

 On April 20th, the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) hosted a webinar,  Impacts of Covid-19 on the Working Dog Industry with Lane Kjellsen, Founder and Chief Executive Officer...

 Editor's Note, May 17, 2022 - California Assembly Bill 1881 has officially been amended to remove the word “rights”.  While AKC did not get every amendment we requested, we thank the...

April 12, 2022 – Massachusetts Governor Baker signs bill surrounded by Sergeant Gannon’s family members, Police K-9 Nero, and State Legislators.At an invitation-only ceremony held on Tuesday, April...

This Blog's One Pager Available Here! It’s no secret that across the country, at all levels of government, anti-breeder and animal rights groups are pushing legislation that undermines ownership...

A bill pending in the California State Assembly seeks to adopt a “Dog and Cat Bill of Rights”, with such vague statements as giving a dog or cat the “right to be spayed or neutered”, a right to a...

 The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) is pleased to host a discussion, on April 20,  of the Impacts of the global Covid-19 pandemic on the working dog industry. The webinar will...

Earlier this week, the United States Supreme Court agreed to consider a case brought by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation (petitioners) against multiple...

Many of the bills in Congress that impact dog breeding or breeders relate specifically to the U.S. Animal Welfare Act (AWA).   The AWA requires licensing and inspection of certain...

We have all heard the expression, “don’t judge a book by its cover,” meaning don’t make a judgment based on appearance alone. Throughout the years, breed-specific legislation (BSL) and proposals...

Download this Blog's One Pager Here! It’s no secret that across the country, at all levels of government, anti-breeder and animal rights groups are pushing legislation that undermines ownership...

 In a recent webinar the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF)  and AKC Canine College unveiled The Confident Puppy e-Learning Course - Interactive Puppy Training with a Purpose!The...

Learn more about Congressman and dog-lover John Katko and Henry, his yellow Labrador Retriever.Plus...The American Kennel Club (AKC), our more than 5,000 dog clubs, and millions of responsible dog...

Recently,  the American Kennel Club joined other leading pet organizations in an open letter to federal, state, and local lawmakers expressing concerns about laws that arbitrarily prohibit the...

On Monday, a district court in Oslo, Norway, composed of a judge and two co-judges (one a veterinarian, the other a geneticist) unanimously concluded that it is contrary to the country’s Animal...

Legislatures are in full swing across the country and AKC Government Relations (GR) staff, clubs, breeders, and federations are walking the halls in capitols across the country to advocate on behalf...

Last week, the AKC Board of Directors approved a new AKC canine legislation position statement on Due Process Protections for Dog Owners. The policy statement addresses a growing trend in the...

View the latest edition of Taking Command, AKC GR’s monthly advocacy newsletter.To sign up for this newsletter direct, visit www.akc.org/subscribe 

In the last quarter of 2021, donors to the AKC Political Action Committee (PAC)   were entered in a drawing, with the grand prize being an Impact Crate. The AKC PAC is pleased to...

 In a recent webinar hosted by the AKC Detection Dog Task Force, expert panelists discussed the desired attributes for puppies at 6-9 months to further their career in the ever-growing detection...

In response to a proposed ballot measure in Oregon, a resolution in California, and a recent upswing in proposals to limit the veterinary practices of tail docking, ear cropping and bark softening,...

With the beginning of a new year, and for many states, new legislative sessions, the American Kennel Club Government Relations (GR) team is pleased to announce 2021 legislative successes.  AKC...

2021 was another busy year for AKC Government Relations (GR). The team monitored approximately 3,000 legislative and regulatory proposals on the federal, state and local levels in all 50 states...

AKC Government Relations’ Stacey Ober, Legislative Analyst/Community Outreach Coordinator for New England, representing AKC GR at the 2021 Connecticut Conference of Municipalities.Annually, the...

There’s still time to join the AKC Detection Dog Task Force for our next webinar on Jan. 12, 2022 at 7:30 PM (ET).*Plus, we are pleased to announce special additional guest panelist Manda...

All dogs deserve a life in a safe, humane environment.  Those who mistreat dogs should be held accountable under the law. Increasingly, AKC Government Relations is seeing legislation that...

Recently, the Maryland Task Force to Study Canine Breeding Facilities and Sourcing Standards released its final report to the Maryland Legislature.  While the report was not perfect, it did...

Dogs are the most diverse mammal on earth. This diversity allows certain breeds to thrive in various climates and perform specific tasks and functions.  Yet too often, especially in...

In 2021, AKC Government Relations tracked some 3,000 bills and regulations on the federal, state, and local levels with the potential to impact dog owners, breeders, and dog sports.  Our rights...

Join the AKC Detection Dog Task Force for our next webinar on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at 7:30 PM (ET). This panel discussion will focus on the transition at 6-9 months, an emphasis on being...

Recently, in response to New Jersey Senate Bill 2868 and Assembly Bill 4533, which would create “animal advocates” in cases involving animals, AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) published the alert:...

Animal rights groups in Oregon are circulating petitions to put a measure on the 2022 ballot that could, among many other restrictions, criminalize ear cropping, tail docking, and bark softening...

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the final adoption of a rule, effective January 3, 2022, that requires licensees...

The United States isn’t the only country reviewing its rules for importing dogs. Changes in Canadian dog import laws were also implemented earlier this year at the height of the pandemic. Now, as...

Lita Frazier-Brannon, Rebecca Roter, Kingsport Alderman Darrell Duncan, Ann Wulbrecht, Tennessee Senator Jon Lundberg, and US Congressmember Diana Harshbarger at the 2021 Doberman Pinscher Club of...

 Earlier this week, the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) held their 87th Annual Conference in Norfolk, Virginia.  For the first time, the American Kennel Club Government Relations...

 In a recent webinar hosted by the AKC Detection Dog Task Force, Dr. Erin Perry enlightened working dog enthusiasts and professional handlers on the importance of careful diet selection,...

During the month of November, American citizens pause to honor veterans who have served our country and defended our democracy.  Our system isn’t perfect, but our experience continues to...

The American Kennel Club Government Relations department would like to welcome our newest staff member, Jacob Hupp. Jacob will serve as the Legislative Analyst/Community Outreach Coordinator for US...

Over the past few weeks, news stories reported a startling development in the ongoing policy debates about how animals should be classified under the law: That a U.S. federal district court ruled...

When communicating with lawmakers, it is important to demonstrate the value and expertise of AKC and its clubs, and the AKC Legislative Action Center has a number of resources available to help...

Dogs that Work Need Diets that WorkThis presentation will focus on the crucial role of nutrition in working dogs.  Key areas of emphasis will include:Diet Selection - How to choose the best diet...

Jennifer Clark, Director, Legislative Outreach, at the Great Dane Club of America National Specialty in Myrtle Beach, SC.Last week, hundreds of Great Dane owners, exhibitors and breeders traveled to...

October 23, 2021 – State Representative Steven Xiarhos, House sponsor of Nero’s Law with Stacey Ober, AKC Legislative Analyst and Community Outreach for New England and her bulldog “Boss”. On...

Whether you are competing in a show or taking a vacation with your pet, sometimes flying is the most efficient option. But did you know that depending on which airline you take, the policies you must...

In recent months, the AKC Government Relations team has received numerous questions about requirements for importing/exporting and traveling internationally with dogs.   In July, recent...

Anne Hier, MAPBD Director of Legislation and Constituent of Sen. Daley, and Bob Darden, MAPBD President, presenting the AKC Legislator of the Year Award to Senator Kevin DaleyYesterday, members of...

Winter is coming, and with it, a drop in temperatures. No dog should be left in conditions where its health and safety are in danger. In response to a tragic situation, it’s not uncommon for...

Due to the increased discussions on the issues of consumer protection, AKC GR is pleased to provide a new, fresh redesign of a handout we first provided in early August that will be even more...

 The Patriotic Puppy Program (PPP) under the purview of AKC’s Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF), would like to introduce two newly developed flyers/handouts to increase awareness of the...

Gale Golden, AKC Delegate for Framingham District Kennel Club and Linda Flynn, AKC Delegate for South Shore Kennel Club present Chairman Tackey Chan with AKC’s Massachusetts Legislator of the Year...

The California State Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution declaring September as Service Dog Appreciation Month.  HR 63, authored by Assemblyman Kelly Seyarto of District 67 (Riverside...

 In a webinar hosted by the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) earlier this week, five industry experts participated in a panel discussion on desired characteristics for 3-6-month-old puppies...

In June 2021, K-9 Kitt, a 12-year veteran police dog with the Braintree Police Department in Massachusetts, was shot and killed in the line of duty.  In response, the South Shore Kennel Club...

The American Kennel Club® (AKC), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the launch of the fifth annual Companion Animal Law Writing...

Get up-to-date information about legislation that affects dogs and their owners—and read what AKC and advocates are doing about it!  View the August 2021 issue of Taking Command.Taking Command...

Thomas Edison once said, “The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.”  For almost a decade, the Greater Lafayette Kennel Club in Indiana took this to heart,...

Originally published on InsideSources.comIt’s heartbreaking when a person is seriously injured or killed by a dog, and it’s natural to want to do something to make sure it never happens again...

In response to a high-profile animal cruelty case two years earlier, in 2019 New Hampshire lawmakers eliminated “commercial kennels” from state law, and instead categorized anyone who transferred...

 The American Kennel Club Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) is pleased to introduce a new video highlighting AKC’s efforts to address the crucial shortage of explosives detection dogs that protect...

In July, the American Kennel Club Government Relations Department participated in the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) Annual Meeting to provide state lawmakers with information on...

Late last week, the U.S. Senate passed the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers Veterans Therapy (PAWS for Veterans Therapy) Act.  HR 1448/S 613 is a ground-breaking measure that recognizes...

 In July, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implemented a temporary suspension on dogs entering the United States from some 110 countries deemed to be at high risk...

This weekend, AKC is hosting an event in San Diego to celebrate and promote dogs.  The AKC Meet the Breeds event is an opportunity for the public to interact with numerous breeds, meet dog...

AKC Government Relations has seen a recent increase in legislative proposals seeking to address the issue of unscrupulous pet sellers. Unfortunately, many of these measures have the opposite impact...

Sen. Thom Tillis  Welcome to the Summer 2021 issue of AKC’s In Session newsletter.Inside, learn about the bipartisan Healthy Dog Importation Act of 2021. This bill requires dogs being...

 Today, Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced a measure to require that all dogs imported into the U.S. meet minimum health standards as demonstrated in a health...

With Anya Lorin, GSD therapy dog, are Susan Barros and Maria Sclafani, NCOIL event planners from The Beaumont Group The National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) hosted their summer...

Charley Hall, AKC Legislative Analyst/Community Outreach Coordinator for the Mid-Atlantic Region.After a one-year hiatus because of COVID-19, the National Association of Counties (NACo) held their...

A webinar hosted by the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DTTF) on Wednesday, July 14th highlighted two recent program changes that have the potential to make a significant, positive impact on...

Ban on Dogs From ‘High-Risk’ Countries a Wake-up Call About Importation Health Crisis (click link to view original article)

 Originally published in the United States Canine Association, Inc. Monthly Newsletter, July 1, 2021. Did you know that approximately 80 to 90% of our explosives detection dogs in the U.S...

AKC's Detection Dog Task Force is continuing its educational efforts in our Webinar series. On July 14th please join us for the AKC Detection Dog Task Force’s upcoming July webinar featuring updates...

 The American Kennel Club welcomes the introduction today of the bipartisan Healthy Dog Importation Act of 2021 (HDIA) in the U.S. House of Representatives, and thanks Representatives...

Press Memorandum: AKC Lauds Introduction of Healthy Dog Importation Act of 2021 to Protect  Pet and Public Health (click to view Press Release)        

Last week, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the temporary suspension of the importation of dogs from countries classified as high risk for canine rabies,...

This is an actual letter recently received by an AKC club member and breeder from their small, rural city’s Building Commissioner:Dear Property Owner/Resident at (address):It has been brought to my...

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced today that it is temporarily banning, with few exceptions, imports of dogs from countries determined to be high risk for canine...

The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) held a webinar on June 9th, “Getting Puppies Started Right for Detection: Experts Compare and Contrast Successful Approaches – Part 2”. Our panelists were...

This article was originally published in Perspectives – The Newsletter for AKC Delegates. BackgroundApproximately 80 to 90% of the explosives detection dogs in the U.S. --whether they work in...

As has been widely covered by the media, the last hours of the 2021 Texas Legislative Session were not without drama.  And that drama was not reserved only for the consideration of voting rights...

A Radical Push To Give Animals the Rights and Privileges of Humans (click link to view original article)

The importance of the role of the breeder impacts the future of a dog’s career. A strong genetic foundation, along with early healthcare and socialization is a key factor in the success of training...

Do your state and local elected officials know about the AKC Reunite Adopt a K-9 Cop program? If not, they should!  Participating in the AKC Reunite Adopt a K-9 Cop Program is just one of many...

Stacey West and German Shorthaired Pointer, Justice  On Saturday, May 8, 2021, the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) hosted a first-of-its-kind seminar for Patriotic Puppy Program (PPP)...

May 1 has long been known as “May Day” and marks a variety of different causes. However, most dog enthusiasts know this day marks National Purebred Dog Day® (NPDD) – a day to celebrate the...

The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department is pleased to announce that longtime purebred dog advocate Stormy Hope of California has been named the recipient of the First Quarter 2021...

 Learn more about Congresswoman and dog-lover Angie Craig and Summit, her Golden Retriever.Plus...No species of mammal is more diverse than the canine. Each breed has a unique story that...

John Culclasure, Southeastern States Assistant Director, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, and Patty Van Sicklen, Southeastern Regional Manager Government Relations, American Kennel Club, welcome...

The American Kennel Club® (AKC), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the winners of its 2020-2021 Companion Animal Law Writing Contest...

The American Kennel Club™ (AKC), the largest purebred registry in the world and leading advocate for dogs, has presented Massachusetts Governor Charles Baker with the AKC “Top Dog” Leadership award...

In December 2020, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) announced final revisions regarding air travel with service dogs. See our previous alert which includes the full file of the...

2021 is already shaping up to be an extraordinarily active year for canine legislation and the AKC Government Relations (GR) team. As an “off-election”, or odd-numbered year, all 50 state...

On March 31, the AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) sponsored a webinar on Government working dog acquisition practices and challenges. Guest speakers Captain Jason Passarella (USAF) and 1st LT...

Throughout the first quarter of 2021, AKC Government Relations has been proud to partner with federations, legislative liaisons, and clubs across the country on behalf of purebred dogs and...

Volunteers may soon be seen throughout Colorado collecting signatures to put a measure on the November 2022 ballot that they will claim will protect animals in the state. The American Kennel Club...

Did you know the AKC has several grant opportunities and awards that are given throughout the year to various AKC clubs, federations, and other exceptional community leaders who work to advance...

The American Kennel Club (AKC) presented Massachusetts Representative Tackey Chan on March 4, 2021, with the AKC Legislator of the Year award in recognition of his...

A recent report from the Graduate School of Defense Management at the Naval Postgraduate School, “Research & Analysis of the American Domestic Government Working Dog...

 A recent report from the Graduate School of Defense Management at the Naval Postgraduate School revealed the importance of working dogs within the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal...

This year seems to be flying by, but it’s not too late to introduce yourself and your club to your local lawmakers. AKC GR is proud to provide you with the resources you need to make your...

“COVID puppy.” A year ago, this term didn’t exist. As COVID-19 restrictions ease and American Kennel Club (AKC) events, club activities, and dog training classes resume, puppies and recently acquired...

  “What happens if I raise my pup to be an explosives detection prospect, and he’s not cut out for the work?”  The AKC Detection Dog Task Force invites you to join the latest webinar in the...

AKC Government Relations is pleased to announce a new, easy-to use option for dog owners to engage in canine policy issues directly from their mobile device. Individuals who receive AKC legislative...

The AKC Government Relations Department mourns the passing of Julian Prager, an extraordinary legislative leader, Bulldog breeder, and passionate advocate for dogs.  Mr. Prager was active in...

The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF), invites you to join us along with participants in the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program for our January 2021 webinar on Getting Puppies Started...

As part of AKC Government Relations’ continued effort to empower dog owners and advocates, we will be continuing to provide new and updated articles and issue analyses in the GR Toolbox section of...

AKC Government Relations had another record year in 2020, with the team tracking some 4,211 bills in 2020. This is an 83% increase over the 2,300 bills tracked in 2019. The largest category of new...

  The American Kennel Club’s commitment to event participant safety during the COVID-19 pandemic received high marks from Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) leadership.  “In December, the...

  AKC Government Relations continues to see proposals introduced on the state and local levels throughout the United States that seek to limit pet stores to only sourcing animals from rescues and...

Today the AKC Government Relations Department released new, easy to use one-page overviews on legislative topics that have the potential to impact the legal classification of animals: Animals Need...

As the pandemic continues, states are looking for ways to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further outbreaks.  This means numerous regulations and guidelines – particularly regarding...

As part of AKC Government Relations’ continued effort to empower and equip dog owners and advocates, we are continuing to provide new and updated resources to the AKC Legislative Action Center...

As part of AKC Government Relations’ continued effort to empower dog owners and advocates, we are continuing to provide new and updated policy resources in the Key Issues section of the AKC...

In an online event last night, the American Kennel Club Detection Dog Task Force introduced new Patriotic Puppy Program Manager Stacey West to a broad audience of dog trainers, breeders, detection...

As part of AKC Government Relations’ continued effort to empower dog owners and advocates, we are providing new and updated policy resources in the Key Issues section of the AKC Legislative Action...

For over 30 years, the City of Denver has banned the ownership of “pit bulls” in the city – a policy that has punished responsible dog owners and innocent dogs in the city for decades.  During...

More and more Americans are traveling with their dogs.  While by and large this is a great thing, it has raised concerns when dogs are left in vehicles when their health and safety could be at...

With the winter shows around the corner, masks have become a necessary element of dog shows. Make sure your mask is sending the right message by supporting the American Kennel Club Political Action...

 The American Kennel Club Detection Dog Task Force is pleased to announce the appointment of Stacey West as Manager and Subject Matter Expert to lead Phase II of the AKC Patriotic Puppy Pilot...

Last week, U.S. Senator Richard Durbin introduced the “Puppy Protection Act” (S. 4757), a companion to U.S. House Bill 2442—measures that the AKC has expressed concerns about.   The...

Recently, the California Legislature passed a bill (Assembly Bill 2152) to further clarify and restrict pet store sales. AKC does not support the underlying ban on pet store sales, but is grateful to...

Beautiful border collie in front of a USA flag with sunglasses Election Day 2020 is Tuesday, November 3. This year, the U.S. President, all 435 seats in the United States House of...

In every election, the American Kennel Club (AKC) sees a fair number of candidates who appear to support the human-animal connection, kindness to animals, and proper care of animals based on sound...

The Government Relations (GR) Department has been providing advocacy and guidance on a number of issues impacting AKC and dog owners throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes: advocacy to...

Julian Prager of the Pennsylvania Federation of Dog Clubs was presented with the AKC’s Walter Bebout Memorial Award for Leadership in Canine Legislation during the Federation’s Annual Meeting on...

Working dogs are a cornerstone that enrich our society by performing essential services. They keep us safe, aid those with disabilities, assist farmers, and so much more. Some of the most important...

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact virtually every aspect of our lives, and many clubs and exhibitors are seeking to inject some normalcy into everyday lives – including returning to...

The American Kennel Club (AKC) has become increasingly aware of anecdotes where radical animal rights activists have targeted individual dog breeders or enthusiasts with harassment, slander or...

In today’s world, masks have become the newest accessory! The AKC PAC is excited to provide you with the opportunity to show you care about the future of our breeds, protecting the health...

We are looking forward to launching our new Anti-Breeder Harassment & Retaliation Task Force website later this week.Here is one of the resources created by the task force to help protect...

*Originally published by Inside Sources on August 12, 2020 As cities debate police funding in the wake of coast-to-coast protests, municipalities should take great care to protect the one public...

The American Kennel Club® (AKC), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the fourth annual Companion Animal Law Writing Contest. The...

The American Kennel Club is pleased to share with you the latest issue of the AKC’s In Session newsletter. Did you know that nearly 1 million dogs are imported into the U.S. each...

Six years ago, the City of Chicago passed a law restricting pet stores to only sourcing dogs from shelters and rescues.  At the time, supporters claimed this was a guaranteed way to shut down...

If you haven’t already heard about problematic animal laws that affect dog events, then it’s time to get up to speed on this issue because increasingly restrictive legislation is being introduced...

*Originally published July 13, 2020 in the Milford Daily News This legislative session, some lawmakers in Boston, expressing concerns about conditions where professionally raised pets are bred and...

The American Kennel Club is pleased to announce Mary McFaun as the winner of the Quarter 1 Community Achievement Award. McFaun serves on Vermont’s Animal Cruelty Advisory Investigation Board...

A 2019-2020 Tennessee bill provides an interesting study on how the continuing expansion of arbitrary animal cruelty legislation and penalties could enrich—with insufficient governmental...

The AKC Detection Dog Task Force (DDTF) was established to help address the global shortage of detection dogs and encourage the breeding and development of homegrown hero dogs that can achieve the...

AKC understands that many clubs are worried about the legal liability associated with a person contracting COVID-19 at a club event. Legal liability with respect to COVID-19 transmissions represents...

Vermont’s Loophole: In 2016, the Vermont Legislature enacted a “housekeeping” measure, Act No. 149, that increased annual license fees charged to agricultural businesses in the state,...

In addition to tracking and responding to legislative proposals, AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) addresses dog-related regulatory proposals from the U.S. federal government, all 50...

The COVID-19 global pandemic has underscored the importance of assuring that animals imported into the U.S. are healthy and free of contagious disease; and that the U.S. has a reliable source of...

In 2011, the Texas Legislature passed and then-Governor Perry signed into law the Dog and Cat Breeders Act.  The law’s aim is to regulate those who (1) possesses 11 or more adult intact...

*Originally posted on InsideSources.com on June 5, 2020 By Sheila Goffe As the COVID-19 pandemic rages, three members of Congress, who are also trained veterinarians, are working hard to head off a...

In recent weeks, there’s been discussion, debate, and even some inaccuracies posted online about a recent decision by the Dutch Kennel Club to limit the registration of certain brachycephalic...

AKC Government Relations (GR) is tracking legislative proposals at federal and state levels that seek to limit the potential civil legal liability of individuals and businesses, including...

Breed-specific legislation (BSL) has long been a concern for dog owners across the United States, and it continues to be an issue as lawmakers seek to address the issue of dangerous dogs in their...

This is a big election year.  Not only is it a presidential election year, but every state will be electing members to Congress, and thirty-three states will be electing a federal Senator...

Earlier this week, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) published the finalization of the new Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations.  Here are some of the most...

Shelter in place orders across much of the U.S. have provided many pet owners unlimited time with their dogs. People who ordinarily are away from home for hours each day have been largely restricted...

AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) is pleased to announce the release of the first in a new series of public policy briefs. Why Breed-Specific Legislation Doesn’t Work: An Analysis of Dangerous...

No Good news for dogs as AKC announces its most popular breeds: The picture painted of the American Kennel Club in a blog published by HSUS yesterday was filled with so many inaccuracies, we’ve...

Sporting dog trainers and hunters in Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina may benefit from increased access for hunting and fishing under COVID-19 restrictions, the...

This year’s National Purebred Dog Day (NPDD) may look a little different. NPDD is traditionally celebrated on May 1 and originally created by Colorado dog enthusiast Susi Szeremy in 2013 as a way...

Like the dogs we love, AKC Legislative Liaisons possess unique and valuable characteristics that benefit mankind. They come from a variety of backgrounds, and although some have formal training,...

Building on the record number of bills introduced in 2019, the new year began with dozens of hearings across the country on bills impacting dogs and dog owners.  While this meant a...

In recently updated guidance, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reiterated that there is no evidence that animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 to people or that pets...

As the world reels from the COVID-19 pandemic, it eagerly anticipates a vaccine to reduce or eliminate the virus’ public health threat.  With AKC events across the country cancelled or...

This weekend, news broke of a confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans, in a tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York.  Six other big cats at the facility are also...

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...

 owners who are under shelter-at-home orders is to attend to the care, health, and safety of their family members, animals, and themselves. AKC Government Relations has been...

There is no question that dogs have a positive impact on our lives. Participating or attending a dog show is a great way to learn about the right breed of dog for your family and the joys and...

The COVID-19 outbreak and preventative public health measures are impacting legislative schedules and hearings in a number of states. In some states such as New Jersey and Hawaii, in-person visits...

Meet the AKC Government Relations Team    The AKC is pleased to introduce the newest member of the AKC Legislative team, Charley Hall. Charley was appointed Legislative Analyst/Community...

In January, the AKC Board of Directors approved a new AKC canine legislation position statement on the Rehoming of Dogs Previously Used in Research. The policy statement addresses concerns...

In January, the AKC Board of Directors approved revisions to the AKC canine legislation position statement on Proper Care and Humane Treatment of Dogs to address issues related to...

Where can you discuss canine legislative trends while sitting for a portrait and cuddling your puppy?  At the AKC National Championship Dog Show, presented by Royal Canin (ANC), of course...

In advocacy, we always talk about the importance of working together to fight for our dogs.  As activists continue to attack the rights of responsible dog owners and breeders, the need to come...

The AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) team was represented at the 2019 National League of Cities (NLC) Summit, held this year in San Antonio, TX. Throughout the multi-day conference, Phil Guidry,...

Dog show participants and invited guests gathered at the Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery, AL to network over dinner and discuss current trends in canine legislation.  Patty Van Sicklen, AKC...

The American Kennel Club® (AKC), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce the winners of its 2019 Companion Animal Law Writing Contest...

At the 2019 AKC National Championship, the AKC Political Action Committee (PAC) hosted a three-day initiative to raise money and awareness of the PAC’s efforts to advance dog-friendly public...

“Stolen Shih Tzu Rocky Still Missing.” “French Bulldog Stolen From Dallas Pet Store.” “Nearly 20 puppies dognapped from local breeder.” Search “pet theft” on the internet and you will get thousands...

On October 24, the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service released a notice of proposed modifications to its Animal Care Inspection Service database,...

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, with characteristics that make them unique.  From furry arctic breeds with dense undercoats to sleek single-coated breeds and even hairless breeds, each breed...

In many households, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade followed by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Show while making Thanksgiving dinner is a special tradition. Watching...

A California Superior Court ruling has tossed a lawsuit brought by a group of animal rights organizations against the use of GPS collars and treeing switches on hunting dogs. The Sacramento Superior...

Over the past couple months, several local governments have been tackling the issue of how to protect their communities from dangerous dogs.  This has led to discussions about breed-specific...

Connecticut – On September 18, 2019, the American Kennel Club (AKC) honored state Representative Doug Dubitsky with the AKC Legislator of the Year award in recognition of his work to promote...

This time of year, much focus is placed in the media on hurricanes and other natural disasters, and soon winter weather will be arriving for much of the country.  As such, many communities are...

This month, the American Kennel Club’s Government Relations Department joined thousands of attendees in Hershey, Pennsylvania for one of the largest grooming shows in the world, Groom Expo. AKC...

The weather and dog gods were smiling on September 10 for the American Kennel Club’s first California Canines at the Capitol event in Sacramento. About a dozen dogs and their handlers were on hand...

In mid-August thousands of state legislators and staff from across the country attended the largest-ever National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) annual summit, in Nashville, Tennessee...

In July, the Ohio General Assembly approved an amendment to confirm that breeders should not be regulated as retail pet stores.  This brief amendment, buried on page 328 of the Ohio general...

In August, AKC’s Government Relations Department returned to the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) Annual Meeting to represent the policy interests of the AKC and of its breeders and...

More people than ever before are including their dogs in vacation travels and everyday activities. By and large, this is a great thing, and most owners know that leaving a dog in a car, even with...

On a very hot Saturday in July, the Silver State Kennel Club, an all-breed club in Las Vegas, Nevada, graciously hosted a meeting with Robert Miller, AKC Legislative Analyst and Community Outreach...

AKC’s Government Relations Department is an active participant in the California Hunting and Conservation Coalition, a group that meets quarterly to discuss issues affecting hunters and sportsmen in...

As the number of dog laws proposed on the local levels continue to increase, it is becoming even more essential for the AKC and local clubs to become proactive in education and outreach to local...

On June 3, 2019, the New Jersey Federation of Dog Clubs (NJFDC) held their quarterly delegates meeting. At the meeting, the guest speaker was Dr. Peter Guzzo, President of TTP Government Relation,...

                                 The American Kennel Club hosted a Celebration of Purebred Dogs for members of...

New Jersey – The American Kennel Club (AKC) presented New Jersey Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle with the AKC Legislator of the Year award in recognition of her valiant advocacy for...

On Sunday and Monday, the Government Relations Team held its national legislative conference in Alexandria, Virginia and Washington DC. Approximately 50 legislative liaisons, federation leaders, AKC...

Alice Harrington of the Virginia Federation of Dog Clubs and Breeders was presented with the AKC’s Walter Bebout Memorial Award for Leadership in Canine Legislation during the AKC National...

On May 22, AKC Government Relations joined a dozen other organizations for an event on the grounds of the North Carolina State Legislature to celebrate and promote the preservation of North...

Patty Van Sicklen, AKC Government Relations Regional Manager and Bee Frederick, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation Southeastern States Director AKC Government Relations joined sporting,...

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has temporarily suspended the importation of dogs from Egypt, effective May 10, 2019.  This suspension also applies to dogs...

On a very busy day at the State Capitol, North Carolina legislators and staff were thrilled to once again welcome the American Kennel Club for the annual AKC Canines at the Capitol event.  The...

Recently released guidance from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides clarification on the interpretation of “rabies free” that it uses when determining...

Our lives today are busier than ever. Most pet lovers have long days filled with commitments and responsibilities, and downtime with our beloved dogs is how we relax. It’s hard to imagine that this...

Today, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service published a request for public comments on proposed updates to the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) licensing requirements. After...

Coming off the heels of a long day of hearings, the Maryland General Assembly and staff were pleased to welcome the American Kennel Club and the Responsible Dog Owners of Maryland (RDO-MD) for...

For most dog breeders and owners, few things are as fear-inducing and stressful as when a police officer or an animal control officer unexpectedly knocks at your door.  The American Kennel Club...

On Wednesday, February 20, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned a decision of the Indiana Supreme Court and held that Eighth Amendment safeguards against excessive fines are “fundamental to the American...

The public, numerous lawmakers, and legislative staff came to New York City on Saturday, February 9, to meet with thousands of dog lovers, owners and breeders at the annual AKC Meet the Breeds event...

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is pleased to present U.S. Representative Vicky Hartzler of Missouri’s 4th Congressional District with the "AKC Legislator of the Year" award. Representative...

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is pleased to present U.S. Representative Ted Yoho of Florida’s 3rd Congressional District with the "AKC Legislator of the Year" award. Representative Yoho has...

An anti-breeder amendment was attached to an unrelated bill. The amendment was filed late on a Friday afternoon on a bill that was up for a vote the following Monday morning.  Fortunately, the...

According to several state legislators: “We don’t hear from you. We hear from the animal rights lobbyists, but we don’t hear from you. We want your input.” When was the last time you spoke with,...