Colorado
Federation of Dog Clubs

The CFDC has participated in the state legislative process for the past several years.  We have opposed breed-specific and guardianship laws and laws that overly-regulate dog owners.  We have supported dangerous dog laws, and other laws that affect everyday life with dogs.  Here are some of the positions we have taken:

Breed-Specific Legislation

CFDC supports dangerous dog regulation which prohibits breed specific laws in Colorado.  Instead of holding all dog owners accountable for their dog’s behavior, breed specific laws penalize only the owners of certain breeds of dogs regardless of the individual dog’s behavior.  We believe communities must establish well-defined procedures when dealing with dogs proven to be dangerous.  Leash laws, public education, and strong enforcement are positive ways to protect the community from dangerous dogs; deeds, not breeds should be addressed . 

Strict Liability for Dogs

Black’s Law Dictionary defines strict liability as: “Does not depend on actual negligence or intent to harm, but is based on the breach of an absolute duty to make something safe.  Strict liability most often applies to ultra-hazardous activities or product liability cases.” This language would imply that all dogs are “hazardous” or “dangerous”.  The language disallows most any defense.  Given that most dog owners are responsible, and the vast majority of dogs are a benefit to mankind, this is a blanket condemnation that we oppose.

Canine Good Citizen

The CFDC worked with the Delta Society to encourage the Colorado legislature to recognize responsible dog ownership through the AKC's Canine Good Citizen Program. 

May 2009 -

PACFA Advisory Committee Meeting scheduled 5/26/09

The PACFA (Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act) Advisory Committee will be meeting at the Colorado Agriculture Department offices, 700 Kipling St, Suite 4000, Lakewood, CO on 5/26/09 from 9AM to 3PM to discuss changes made to the law this year and possible changes/updates to regulations.  The Federation will have representation there to review concerns and suggestions for improvements to existing regulations.  Several issues of concern were identified this year during debate on the defeated "Puppy Mill Bill" HB09-1172 that may be addressed in regulations rather than statutory changes.  Anyone may attend this meeting but discussion is usually limited to Advisory Committee members and those invited to give input.  The Federation will be giving input and invites any members of the dog community to send their concerns for inclusion in that presentation.  Please feel free to contact us at if you have any concerns or questions, or if you need more information on attending.  This is not a meeting where we need members to attend, but you are welcome if you wish.  We will post a report on the results to this website after the meeting.

Linda Hart,  CFDC Secretary

News

[06/27/09]
MEETING!
»»

[05/28/09]
10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals revives pit bull lawsuit.
more information

[05/26/09]
PACFA MEETING!
info

[02/01/09]
LEGISLATIVE ALERT, and more...

[1/15/09]
ARAPAHOE COUNTY ALERT, and more...

[11.07.2008]
Flatirons kennel club paying for police dog's surgery. Kudos to them!
 »»

[08.14.2008]
DOG FANCY MAGAZINE NAMES COLORADO SPRINGS "DOG TOWN" 2008 »»

[07.31.2008]
AKC REPRESENTS DOG OWNERS IN CHALLENGE TO DENVER BREED BAN
»»

[04.23.2008] COLORADO HOUSE BILL #1308 GOES FROM LION TO A LAMB?»»

[04.16.2008]
The PETA Saga Continues »»