When animal control concerns arise, legislators often consider placing a limit on the number of dogs residents may own. However, limit laws are ineffective, difficult to enforce, and fail to address the true problem of irresponsible ownership.There is no link between a specific number of dogs and nuisance problems. One dog that barks continuously or habitually runs loose will cause trouble, while several dogs that are quiet and stay home will not. Vigorous enforcement of animal control and nuisance regulations that address behavior that is problematic for neighbors is a better use of resources and provides for a more peaceful community.
The AKC supports public education campaigns to teach residents about responsible dog ownership, such as how to properly care for and interact with pets. Incentivizing residents to engage in obedience training and providing adequate parks and trails on which dogs can be properly exercised promote responsible animal ownership.
The American Kennel Club and its affiliated clubs understand the challenges of creating effective animal control ordinances for a community. We support laws that target irresponsible dog owners and substandard animal care; however, limit laws do not address these issues. Limit laws are ineffective, difficult to enforce and unfair to responsible dog owners. Laws should instead focus on targeting irresponsible owners regardless of the number of dogs owned.
Thanks for trying to take action! There’s no need to act on this campaign because either your elected officials were not included or there’s currently a vacancy in your district.
Thanks for trying to take action! Unfortunately, we could not send your message because:
None of the officials targeted in this campaign accept the type of communication chosen by your organization.
No further action is needed at this time. Thank you again.
Thank you for trying to take action. Unfortunately, none of your officials accept this type of communication.
Please do not close this window. You will need to come back to this window to enter your code.
We just sent an email to ... containing a verification code.
If you do not see the email within the next five minutes, please ensure you entered the correct email address and check your spam/junk mail folder.
Enter Your Info
Your Information
Please enter a valid mobile phone number.
You must text "START" to +19194436327 because you previously un-subscribed.
Home Information
Enter Zip for City and State
Business Information
Enter Zip for City and State
Enter Your Info
Additional Information
Your message has not been sent! Your officials require the following additional information to be submitted in order for this message to be delivered to them.
The prefix you selected is not accepted by at least one of your legislators. Please choose one of the following prefixes:
