AKC Joins Opposition to CA ‘Dog and Cat Bill of Rights’

The American Kennel Club, world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, has joined with the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and the Animal Health Institute (AHI) in making a joint public statement opposing the proposed California Assembly Bill 1881.

The bill, touted as a “Dog and Cat Bill of Rights” has several concerning elements to it and would severely undermine the rights of pet owners to make appropriate health care decisions for their animals and take the best possible care of their pets, according to the AKC. Additionally, it has the potential to shift the legal status of pets in California, which could result in unintended consequences and future litigation.

“The American Kennel Club cares deeply about the wellbeing of all dogs,” said Sheila Goffe, Vice President of Government Relations, AKC. “We are pleased to join with the California Veterinary Medical Association and the Animal Health Institute to share our concerns about this proposal, which could undermine the rights and responsibilities of pet owners to make appropriate care decisions for their animals.”

The letter, sent to the author of the bill California State Representative Miguel Santiago and to the Assembly Business and Professions Committee, which is considering the bill on April 26, calls for amendments to the legislation and outlines the concerns for pets and their owners.

The AKC, CVMA and AHI are organizations dedicated to ensuring the health, welfare and humane care of animals and ensuring that pet owners understand the responsibilities of pet ownership.

The full text of the letter can be viewed here.