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Protecting Responsible Dog Ownership in a Competitive Political Environment

Protecting Responsible Dog Ownership in a Competitive Political Environment. Presented by Walt Bebout Director of Canine Legislation American Kennel Club. Discussion Focuses. Challenges – Threats to responsible dog ownership and their sources.

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Protecting Responsible Dog Ownership in a Competitive Political Environment

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  1. Protecting Responsible Dog Ownership in a Competitive Political Environment Presented by Walt Bebout Director of Canine Legislation American Kennel Club

  2. Discussion Focuses • Challenges – Threats to responsible dog ownership and their sources. • Opportunities – Understanding the motivations of elected officials and how to capitalize on those motivations for positive outcomes. • AKC Resources – The tools necessary to succeed in the political process.

  3. AKC Mission Statement • The American Kennel Club is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Founded in 1884, the AKC and its affiliated organizations advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership.

  4. Responsible Ownership Issues • Breed specific laws (BSL) – Dangerous Dog Ordinances • Breeding restrictions (MSN) – Breeding Permits • Statewide “Breeders” bills • Limit/zoning/nuisance ordinances • Cruelty to Animals • Guardianship versus Ownership • Consumer Protection – Animal “Lemon Laws”

  5. Challenges Inherent in the Political System • Fifty State Legislatures • 3141 Counties in the US (parishes in Louisiana, boroughs in Alaska) • More than 30,000 incorporated cities in the United States. • More than 33,141 local governmental entities in the US.

  6. Perceptions of problems produce demands for public policy response • Breed specific legislation proposals are almost always the result of an incident in a community • Mandatory spay/neuter or breeder permits are forwarded as solutions to perceived pet overpopulation/shelter issues

  7. AKC Resources • AKC Website: www.akc.org • Email: doglaw@akc.org • Canine Legislation Department Phone Number : 919.816.3721

  8. AKC Resources • Taking Command (electronic newsletter addressing legislative issues) • Legislative Alerts • Bill/ordinance analysis • Assistance/intervention in legislative process • Outreach capability to AKC constituents via email and regular mail • Seminars at dog events • Brochures

  9. Brochures • Make Your Contact Count • Disagree Diplomatically • Preparing for Action • Preserve Your Rights as a Dog Owner • Economic Impact of Dog Shows • Public Relations Tips and Tools

  10. Information: Packets • Dangerous Dogs/BSL • Preventing Breeding Restrictions • Consumer Protection/Puppy Lemon Laws • Dogs in Parks • AKC Position Statements • Organizing State Federations

  11. Canine Legislation Department Materials

  12. Partnering Resources • State Federations • National Parent Clubs • Local Dog Clubs • Legislative Liaisons

  13. Untapped Resources • AKC Registrants and Event Participants • Purebred dog owners • Pet owners • Coalition formation with animal interest groups

  14. Why We Fight for Responsible Dog Ownership

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