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 members at their October 5th meeting to discuss how positive and problematic laws can affect dogs, dog owners, and club events. Patty Van Sicklen, Regional Manager-Southeast, American Kennel Club Government Relations, presented an overview of legislative trends.

Participants shared information about their community educational activities, and advocate Constance Ray provided commentary on how overreaching laws can negatively affect individuals with disabilities who utilize service dogs. 

Members of Gulf Coast-area AKC clubs are working together on new initiatives. “We are forming committees to explore additional educational and outreach opportunities in our area,” said MKC President Barbara Robinson.