Legislative Issues of Concern to UDC Members
Legislative issues of concern to UDC members include breed specific legislation such as bans of certain breeds and regulations for certain named breeds of dogs, bans on cropping and/or docking dogs, and restrictions on breeding dogs, number of dogs allowed.
- American Dog Owners Association Listing of Current Legislation
- American Kennel Club Legislative Watch
- http://www.dogwatch.net/index.html
- Sample Letters in Opposition
What You Can Do
- Get to know your local political leaders BEFORE anti-dog legislation is considered by writing a letter introducing yourself and your background in dogs. Many local and state governments have websites where you can find out who your representatives are and how to contact them.
- Stay informed. Join local kennel clubs and dog organizations. Review agendas of local government boards and commissions on a regular basis.
- Don't hide if an attack or other bad publicity occurs. Contact your local representatives expressing your regret at the incident, and remind them that the owner is the problem ... not the dog breed.
- If your community is considering breed bans and restrictions, educate your representatives about the importance of well-written dangerous dog laws and introduce them to model dangerous dog laws.