Many legislatures will reconvene in January, and some are already beginning pre-filing bills for the 2010 sessions. A few states are still in session and considering bills that impact responsible dog owners. Additionally, numerous local municipalities are considering legislation that may affect you as a dog owner or breeder. As you consider contacting your public officials, here are a few simple steps to help ensure your communications are effective:

1. Be brief, concise, and accurate. This point is essential regardless of whether you are writing, calling, or meeting with a public official. Public officials are extremely busy and legislatures introduce hundreds of bills each session. Whether you are writing or calling your legislator, meeting with them, or testifying in a committee hearing, it is important to communicate a simple, clear message. Tell them exactly what legislation you want to talk about, the action you want them to take (Vote no, support the amendment, etc.), and why you take that position. Always ensure that the information you provide is accurate and relevant to the legislation you are addressing.


2. Be polite. No matter the public official’s position, it is imperative to be polite and courteous. They are not dog experts, and often simply want to fix a problem they see in their state or community. Being polite and courteous will help ensure your message will be heard. Rude comments, anger, and personal attacks- even if they are not directed at the representative- are offensive, will overshadow your message and possibly even prevent you from meeting with that official in the future. Communication with your representatives is an opportunity for education and establishing a working relationship so that you may continue to meet with them regarding canine legislative issues.


3. Personalize your message. It is important for legislators to know how a bill will affect specific people, particularly people in the district they represent. If you are a constituent, be sure to mention that at the beginning of your message. Also, if applicable, (briefly) let them know how the legislation will affect you personally should it be enacted. Remember, legislators are not dog experts. Knowing how legislation will affect actual people (particularly in their constituency) is an effective reminder when it is time for them to vote on the bill.

These are just a few of the simple steps to help you be a more effective advocate for canine legislation. The AKC Government Relations Department is also available to help you as you prepare to communicate with legislators. We can help you understand the legislation, formulate talking points, and provide other helpful suggestions to help you be a successful advocate. If you are interested in having the AKC assist you with legislative communications or distributing AKC materials regarding advocacy and policy to your club or group, please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org.

The Government Relations Department has also just released a new document filled with helpful information on how to communicate with public officials. This new format of our popular “Make Your Contact Count” brochure is in a one-page, printable format that you can distribute to your club and fellow dog owners. Click here to print this new document!