May 12, 2016
Dog breeder laws passed in State Parliament on Thursday aim to stamp out puppy “farms” and identify unscrupulous backyard breeders.
“Those who exploit the welfare of breeding dogs and their puppies for their own financial gains have no place in Queensland,” Agticulture Minister Leanne Donaldson said.
“Under the legislation all dog breeders, apart from genuine working dog breeders, must register and include their breeder identification number (ID) on their dog’s microchip details and display their breeder ID at the point of sale and supply.
She said that to ensure there were no loopholes for unscrupulous breeders to exploit, “mum and dad” breeders or accidental breeders would also be required to register, as well as people who give puppies away.
“This scheme will help identify unregistered breeders and will shut illegal puppy farmers out of the market,” she said.
Ms Donaldson said dogs that were bred in poor conditions often had health conditions that resulted in unnecessary suffering, expensive ongoing veterinary treatment or early death.
“This is a major change for Queensland dog breeders and we will roll out an education plan in the months leading up to the breeder registration scheme commencing,” Ms Donaldson said.
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RSPCA Qld CEO Mark Townend congratulated the State Government on the new laws.
“This is a major breakthrough for animal welfare and we’re very grateful to the government,” Mr Townend said.
“We firmly believe these laws will help identify unscrupulous breeders and stamp out the insidious puppy farms that prey on humans and animals alike.
“I really feel this is a major step forward. The legislation was primed to go through before the election before last but then fell by the wayside, so it’s terrific that this government has seen fit to prioritise animal welfare.”
