South Australians can now begin the process of registering as a dog or cat breeder via the Dog and Cat Management Board’s website, before registration becomes compulsory on 1 July 2018.
The requirement to register as a breeder is designed to bring greater accountability to the dog and cat trade, and force unscrupulous puppy and kitten farmers into the light.
The new “pre-registry” has been launched in response to growing interest from dog and cat owners keen to comply with new laws.
Environment and Conservation Minister Ian Hunter said the vast majority of dog and cat breeders do a wonderful job of caring for their animals and conducting their breeding operation in humane conditions, however, there are some who sadly place profit before the welfare of their animals.
“In the past, these people have been able to ply their trade with little oversight,” he said.
“Currently, most councils don’t have any way of knowing which breeders are operating in their areas. Under the new breeder registration requirement, breeders will be required to disclose their Breeder Registration Number plus up-to-date contact details to ensure buyers know their new pets come from a trustworthy source.
“Breeder registration, along with the recently introduced standards and guidelines for breeders and sellers, is helping to create a better world for our pets.
“By closing the loopholes that puppy farms hide behind, we’re helping South Australians ensure the dog or cat they bring into their family comes from a reputable, humane home.”
Background
Breeder registration is just one of the state’s new dog and cat management laws, including tougher fines for dog attacks, compulsory microchipping and mandatory desexing for all dogs and cats born after 1 July 2018 (subject to exemption).
The new breeder registration requirement applies to anyone who breeds a dog or cat, not just pedigree breeds.
Once registered with the Board, breeders will be issued with a breeder registration number (BRN) that must appear in all advertisements for sale or trade.
When in effect from 1 July 2018, it will be illegal for most people to advertise, sell or trade a dog or cat without disclosing the breeder registration number.
Breeders can now lodge their name and email address with the Board, and will be notified when official registration commences shortly prior to 1 July 2018.
