The RSPCA has adopted new policy and educational material in relation to dog breeding that reflects to a large degree those issues raised by Pets Australia members.

Pets Australia, in its submission to the RSPCA paper, argued for

– ceasing to use the activist language “puppy farms” as the meaning of this term was not well understood

– defining “puppy farms” based solely on standards and not on motive

– defining “backyard breeders” solely on standards and not on registration status or breed

– recognising that being a registered breeder is not a guarantee of high standards.

In its follow up to the discussion paper, The RSPCA website shows a balanced and educational discussion of the “poor standards issue”, including

– using the term “puppy factories” rather than the activist terms, and defining “puppy factories” as poor quality, poor standards operations

– defining “backyard breeders” as poor standards breeders, rather than on motive, size or breed

– recognising that poor standard operations should be stopped wherever they occur – purebred, hybrid, small or large.

While it’s fair to say that members ideas as expressed in the Pets Australia submission reflected a growing feeling in the community, it’s still really exciting to see the whole issue moving from activist toward policy that could be agreed with a group of peak bodies to get real improvement in Australian pet businesses.  After all, that’s our mission! 

TO SEE THE RSPCA STATEMENT ON PUPPY FARMS Click here

TO SEE THE RSPCA STATEMENT ON RESPONSIBLE COMPANION ANIMAL BREEDING Click here

To see the Pets Australia submission on the RSPCA Puppy Farm discussion paper (Mar 2010) Click here