New Code Of Practice Good News For Pets

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) welcomes the new ‘Animals in Pet Shops Code of Practice’ announced today. The code gives mandatory rules and guidelines for keeping and selling animals in pet shops. “The new code of practice details the mandatory regulations and best practice guidelines to ensure the welfare of animals in pet shops,” Dr Mark Lawrie, President of the AVA said. “The legal requirements are now clearly laid out for animal retailers and carry legal ramifications if these are not met. “There will be much less ambiguity for people involved in the care and management of animals in pet shops as the roles and responsibilities are plainly stated. “The new standards around the sale of animals, which include things such as age restrictions for customers buying dogs and cats and the requirement for accurate written information on the care of the animal, are really important steps in achieving responsible pet ownership. “Mandatory microchipping before sale will mean a prompt return of lost companion animals to their owners and will help with the control of lost animals. “The number of dogs and cats sold in pet shops is only a small part of the animal retail market – around 15%. We encourage the government to ensure high standards of animal welfare in all other sources of pet retailing too. “Anything that can be done to improve the health and welfare of these animals is a positive step forward. We strongly urge the NSW Government to make sure the standards are enforced and retailers not doing the right thing are held to account,” Dr Lawrie said.

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