RSPCA applauds breeder identification legislation
RSPCA Australia has welcomed the new dog breeder identification system proposed by the Queensland Government and is urging other states to follow suit.
“The new dog breeder identification system proposed by the Queensland Government will play a major role in stamping out unscrupulous puppy farmers,” RSPCA Australia Chief Scientist, Dr Bidda Jones said.
“This is great news and shows that the Government has taken on board the suggestions of animal welfare groups and responsible dog breeders.”
Each breeder property would have its own number and that number would have to be displayed at point of sale or in advertising for sale or supply. There would also be compulsory microchipping of breeding bitches. These measures reflect the steps proposed by the RSPCA and other stakeholders to bring an end to puppy farming across Australia.
“The RSPCA has long campaigned for an end to puppy farming, and this is a progressive step in the right direction, taken by the Queensland Government – one we hope catches on in other states.”
“In Queensland alone over the past two years, the RSPCA has cared for more than one thousand dogs seized from deplorable conditions on puppy farms.”
“This system will help ensure that all puppies born in Queensland are raised in a healthy and happy environment and, importantly for their future, are permanently traceable to their breeder.
Note to editors
End Puppy Farming - The Way Forward is a framework to end puppy farming in Australia developed by the RSPCA in consultation with other animal welfare groups and responsible dog breeders available from:
http://www.rspca.org.au/assets/files/Campaigns/EndPuppyFarming-theWayForward.pdf