URGENT Legislative Alert From the American Kennel Club

Horry County, SC: Contact County Council About Overreaching Animal Ordinance. First Vote is Tuesday (8/17/21)

By AKC Government Relations
Aug 13, 2021

The Horry County (SC) County Council will hold the first of three votes on amendments to the county animal ordinance on Tuesday, August 17, 2021. Owners of pets and “large animals” are urged to review the proposed ordinance and express their concerns to council members.

The numerous provisions that would affect dog owners include the following:
• The definition of “animal rescue organization” specifically excludes a person or entity that is located on the same premises as a person who breeds dogs or cats or that “has any personnel in common with such person or entity, including but not limited to any employee, manager or board member.” This is could negatively impact dog breeders and AKC club members who participate in the rescue and rehoming of dogs or other animals.

• Failure to provide a “constant” supply of water would be an offense. This would disallow withholding water for any reason, including under the direction of a veterinarian, during house training, or in accordance with other accepted animal husbandry practices. Rather than requiring a “constant” supply of water,