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 Legislative Conference in Alexandria, Virginia, on June 23, 2019.
As the Legislative Liaison for the Virginia Federation of Dog Clubs and Breeders, Ms. Harrington has worked tirelessly in Richmond on behalf of breeders and dog owners for many years. In a busy 2019 session, Harrington spent extensive time at the Virginia Capitol testifying in committee hearings, meeting with legislators, and building coalitions to protect the rights of responsible Virginia animal owners.
As a result of her efforts, and those of the other leaders in the Virginia federation, no legislation that would negatively impact dog owners passed in the General Assembly in the 2018-2019 session. This includes several bills that would have limited the ability of dog owners and sportsmen to humanely tether dogs outside. Despite numerous efforts and political maneuvers, the bill that ultimately passed included the amendments requested by the AKC and the federation.
“For years, Alice has been a stalwart and essential advocate for Virginia dog owners right in the backyard of many national animal rights groups,” said Jennifer Clark, AKC Director of Legislative Outreach. “During this session, despite personal challenges, she was still a regular and reliable presence at the Virginia Capitol speaking out on behalf of dogs. Thanks to her tireless efforts and those of the Virginia Federation of Dog Clubs and Breeders, we once again celebrated victories for responsible dog owners in the Commonwealth.”
About the Bebout Award
The “Bebout” award recognizes federations and owner/breeder organizations that have demonstrated leadership in educating legislators about responsible dog ownership issues and have worked to preserve the rights of responsible owners and breeders.
Winners of the Bebout award receive a donation to help offset the costs associated with their legislative efforts.
Do you know of a club or organization that is deserving of the Bebout award? To learn more about the award or make a nomination, contact doglaw@akc.org or 919-816-3720.
