The California legislative session is in full swing and AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) continues to track many bills of interest to dog owners. In addition, we will continue to watch for any amendments or other actions that could affect responsible dog ownership. The following are current statuses of bills that AKC GR is following, […]

On Thursday, April 18, the Vermont House voted favorably on an amended H. 626 relating to animal welfare protections. The American Kennel Club (AKC) first reported on this omnibus bill in February.  The simplified bill lays the groundwork fundamental to achieving H. 626’s initial goals: Establishes a Division of Animal Welfare at the Department of […]

On Tuesday, April 16, the California Assembly Business and Professions Committee held a hearing for AB 2425, a bill seeking to address concerns in animal shelters and change the definition of a dog breeder in California code to encompass hobbyists. No vote was taken during the hearing and at this time AKC believes the Business […]

On Tuesday, April 16, a California Assembly committee will be considering a bill seeking to address concerns in animal shelters and change the definition of breeder in California code to encompass hobbyists. The proposal, as currently written, insinuates that people who breed as few as ONE litter are contributing to animal shelter population concerns. California […]

On Tuesday, April 9, the Los Angeles City Council voted to suspend the issuance of new breeding permits until city animal shelters are below 75 percent of capacity. AKC continues to strenuously oppose this measure as responsible dog breeders are not the reason why city animal shelters are in distress. AKC will continue to advocate […]

On Tuesday, April 9, the Los Angeles City Council voted to suspend the issuance of new breeding permits until city animal shelters are below 75 percent of capacity. AKC continues to strenuously oppose this measure as responsible dog breeders are not the reason why city animal shelters are in distress. AKC will continue to advocate […]

The New York Senate has passed a ban on “debarking” – a recognized veterinary practice also known as bark softening. Senate Bill 142 would prohibit veterinarians from performing this procedure unless it is medically necessary to treat an injury, illness, or congenital defect. Senate Bill 142 has now been referred to the Assembly Agriculture Committee […]

A positive Tennessee state bill that recognizes the value of therapy dogs is scheduled to be heard by the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee at their meeting on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 8:30am. Tennessee residents are encouraged to contact committee members and ask them to vote yes on Senate Bill 1867. Please scroll […]

Summary: On Wednesday, April 3, the Los Angeles Neighborhoods and Community Enrichment Committee voted to send a proposal to the full Los Angeles City Council that would suspend the issuance of new breeding permits. The full city council will consider the proposal on Tuesday, April 9. See below for more info! Reminder: this proposal would […]

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider a problematic animal ordinance at their April 9, 2024, meeting. Every pet owner, breeder, rescue group, foster pet caretaker, and individual in DeKalb County who transfers, gives away, or sells a pet would be affected by this proposed new law. Additionally, the collection and retention […]