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 16-17 in Lexington. The event provided opportunities to meet county officials, share AKC’s canine policy expertise, and advocate for effective, welfare-based solutions to dog issues.

“Among the challenges expressed by representatives of several counties are too many at-large dogs. We discussed provisions of effective leash laws, ways to promote microchipping to help escaped dogs get back home, and enactment of escalating fines for irresponsible owners who repeatedly allow their dogs to roam,” said Patty Van Sicklen, AKC Southeast Regional Manager for Government Relations.

“Bringing AKC’s resources to the conference aligns with KACo’s mission to serve Kentucky counties by providing high quality programs and services. AKC GR looks forward to working with county leaders to achieve positive outcomes for dogs and dog owners,” Van Sicklen said.