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.

The first prize winner is Monica Pechous from the Chicago-Kent College of Law for her submission, “A Leash Too Tight: A Case for a ‘Pet-Integrative’ Society.” This paper examines the current legal climate for service animal handlers and the consequences of future policy. As this year’s first place winner, she will receive a $2,500 cash prize.  

The second prize winner is Anni Wojcieszko from the University of Akron School of Law. Her submission, “Bond for Care Laws, Civil Forfeiture and the Due Process Requirement,” explored the many complexities that go into bond for care law. She will receive a $500 cash prize in recognition of her achievement.

AKC congratulates the winners and thanks all contestants for bringing depth and unique perspectives to the discussion of animal law.

Submissions for the next AKC Animal Law Writing contest open in the Fall 2020 semester. 

About the Contest:

The Companion Animal Law Writing Contest provides students at ABA-accredited law schools the opportunity to research and write about cutting-edge legal and public policy topics impacting companion animals.  Entries were judged by members of the legal and public policy professions with experience in laws impacting companion animals. The following factors were considered: demonstrated knowledge of the topic, application of legal principles, effective use of proper authorities, strength of logic and reasoning, originality, and conclusions of future impact. Consideration was also given to technical aspects such as organization, citations, proper format, and overall clarity.  Because all viewpoints were welcomed, submissions do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Kennel Club.  For more information visit www.writeaboutanimallaw.org.