Nowhere to hide for cruel puppy farms

Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Leanne Donaldson said new dog breeder registration laws passed by Parliament today will help identify unscrupulous breeders and stamp out cruel puppy farming

“Those who exploit the welfare of breeding dogs and their puppies for their own financial gains have no place in Queensland,” Minister Donaldson said.

“This legislation delivers on the Palaszczuk Government’s election commitment to close the door on puppy farms in Queensland.

“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 point of sale and supply.

“This scheme will help identify unregistered breeders and will shut illegal puppy farmers out of the market.

“Dogs that are bred in poor conditions often have health conditions that result in unnecessary suffering, expensive ongoing veterinary treatment or early death.

“Prospective dog owners will soon have greater assurance that their dog was bred by a reputable breeder in healthy and safe conditions.”

Minister Donaldson said that to ensure there are no loopholes for unscrupulous breeders to exploit, dog breeders will be required to register, including mum and dad or accidental breeders, or people who give puppies away.

“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.

Minister Donaldson said her department is working with the RSPCA, Dogs Queensland and local government to deliver the government’s election commitment to develop the Queensland animal welfare standards and guidelines for breeding dogs and their progeny.

‘These standards will promote good management and care practices for breeding dogs in Queensland and will be a mandatory code under the Animal Care and Protection Act (2001).

“This Government is committed to providing legislation and standards that protects the reputation of Queensland’s animal industries and ensures the welfare of all animals.

For more information visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au or call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.