The biennial AKC Legislative Conference, presented by AKC Government Relations, is scheduled for July 22-24 in Raleigh, NC. This exciting, invitation-only event is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to meet and work with top experts in canine welfare and policy. Come to this informative event to network and share experiences with other advocates throughout the U.S; learn how to create blogs and social media for advocacy; hear about the latest trends, strategies and tips for legislative success; and learn what others are doing to inspire engagement and protect the future of dog ownership.

AKC Legislative Liaisons, Delegates, club officers, and representatives of AKC-affiliated federations are invited to attend. Please click here for a printable flyer with information about this year’s featured presentations. If you are among the invitees and have not received your invitation via email, please contact 919-816-3645 or pvs@akc.org for information, a conference registration form, or to register by telephone.

AKC clubs are encouraged to appoint an alternate member to attend the conference if your invited club officials are unable to come this year. Please call 919-816-3645 or send an email message to pvs@akc.org to arrange for an alternate to attend on behalf of your club.

At long last, a compelling and dramatic new dog movie is coming out. The Dog Lover opens in select theatres nationwide and on Video on Demand from Sony Home Entertainment on July 8.

If you love dogs you need to see this film.

Based on a true story, The Dog Lover tells the story of a young woman who goes undercover for an animal advocacy group to collect evidence against a breeder (played James Remar) the group believes is neglecting his dogs.

North Carolina legislators and staff were thrilled to once again welcome the American Kennel Club to the state capitol for the annual AKC Canines at the Capitol event. The AKC invited them to “come hug a dog on your lunch break” and they did just that – posing for pictures with the dogs and cheering as some showed off their skills on an agility course.

AKC brought a variety of dogs including a Great Pyrenees puppy, a loveable corgi, and a photogenic and friendly German Shorthaired Pointer. The legislators also enjoyed getting their picture with a Plott, which is the state dog of North Carolina.

North Carolina Representative Jimmy Dixon has been honored with the 2015 AKC Legislator of the Year award in recognition of his strong advocacy for responsible dog ownership.

Sheila Goffe, Vice President, Government Relations, presented a framed red, white and blue rosette to Rep. Dixon at the annual AKC Canines at the Capitol event held May 10, 2016 at the North Carolina Legislative Plaza. “Patsy”, a Plott hound, gave Rep. Dixon celebratory dog kisses during the presentation. The Plott is the state dog of North Carolina.

In May, the AKC PAC emailed a message to AKC club members with a link to a compelling new video, Don’t Lose What You Love. Members of AKC clubs and AKC-affiliated federations who did not receive the email can view the video here.

The United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA/APHIS) has issued new guidance that allows USDA licensees and registrants to use microchips to officially identify regulated animals without having to request a variance.

USDA-licensed dog breeders, owners, transporters, and other regulated entities can view USDA’s May 23, 2016 bulletin and the requirements for compliance here. View USDA’s updated Animal Care Policy Manual here.