As co-owners/owners who have shared the joy and responsibility of raising our dogs, we find ourselves in a distressing predicament. Melissa Sanders, once a trusted associate, now faces over a dozen felony charges related to the alleged torture and killing of over 20 dogs in her care. This breach of trust has left us, the owners of these dogs, in a state of uncertainty and despair.

The American Kennel Club (AKC), an esteemed organization dedicated to the welfare of dogs and the rights of their owners, has made the alarming decision to freeze all registrations of all dogs associated with Melissa Sanders. This action has severely hindered our ability to participate in AKC events with our beloved animals, despite our complete innocence in this situation. 

According to court documents, Melissa Sanders has been charged with multiple felonies related to the torture of dogs, raising serious concerns about her fitness as a caretaker for any animal. In November 2025, the court also removed Melissa's rights to own dogs. The AKC’s Hardship Policy, designed specifically for instances like this, should protect innocent co-owners from being penalized due to another individual’s actions. However, despite our continued advocacy for our dogs, the AKC has remained unresponsive, citing reasons that lack transparency and accountability.

We implore the AKC to adhere to its foundational mission: “To advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners, and promote responsible dog ownership.” It is imperative that they align their actions with their stated purpose, providing relief to the innocent parties affected by these tragic circumstances.

Each day without resolution compounds our distress. By maintaining this freeze, the AKC inadvertently supports the ongoing control of Melissa Sanders over these dogs, despite her legal troubles.

We propose the immediate activation of the AKC’s Hardship Policy to unfreeze and transfer rightful ownership of the affected dogs to us and register  dogs and litters to us, their owners.  This would enable us to care for, show, and further the lineage of our dogs without unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.

We invite you to stand with us and hold the AKC accountable to its promises and policies. Your support will help correct this injustice. Together, we can champion the rights of responsible dog owners and ensure the well-being of the innocent dogs caught in this unfortunate situation. We urge you to sign this petition, calling on the AKC to honor their Hardship Policy and deliver justice for all affected co-owners and their dogs.