Dog Federations

State dog federations and their active members have a powerful voice in affecting proposed legislation that will directly impact their residents. It is important to be united and vocal on many topics that address dog ownership such as unfair breeder regulations, limit laws, breed-specific legislation and mandatory spay-neuter laws. When fighting bad dog laws remember AKC Government Relations will partner with you when you make a request before it is too late to fight.

AKC List of Dog Federations

AKC Federation Statement of Principles

Regional clubs can join their state federation and send their delegates to meetings.

Neighborhood Networking

You can join a neighborhood social networking group online using https://Nextdoor.com to be kept aware of upcoming agenda items. Learn how to join your neighborhood group or start one here How-to-join-Nextdoor. They have an application (app) that you can add to your smart phone. To view on Facebook, search for https://www.facebook.com/Nextdoor/.

Many private neighborhood forums have been created on Facebook. Search for your own local neighborhood community group by typing your town in the search box and ask to join.

Responsible Dog Ownership

Besides dealing with public awareness of dog ownership rights, it is most helpful to be a recognizable face in the public eye. One way for clubs to meet the public is to organize an “AKC Meet the Breed ®”. This can be done alone or in conjunction with an “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day”, also known as RDOD, event held nationally in the month of September. This can be a qualifier for clubs to hold their specialties.

Personal Responsibility

Each and every one of us can take responsibility for our “dog friends”, club members, and neighbors. Share phone numbers to provide assistance when needed. Check in with the elderly or health compromised. Are they able to manage their pets while they convalesce? Are they able to take care of their pet’s needs? Do they need a temporary foster home? Do they need temporary financial assistance? It doesn’t take long to have a situation turn into a crisis.

Be aware of the current laws in your municipality for noise and dog limits, and which organization, e.g. Police or Animal Control Officers, is authorized to investigate complaints. Know your rights. Especially know whether officers may or may not enter your property without a warrant. What may be construed as abuse by an outside observer may just be as harmless as a yet to be attended kennel room.