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RSPCA Policy A06 Breeding of companion animals

6.1RSPCA Australia is opposed to uncontrolled breeding of companion animals because this inevitably leads to the euthanasia of healthy animals.
6.2Where companion animals are bred, RSPCA Australia believes that breeding must be planned to match the likely demand and undertaken responsibly to ensure suitable homes will be available for each animal, the conditions must meet the animals’ behavioural, social and physiological needs and adequately prepare the animal for life as a companion animal.
6.3RSPCA Australia is opposed to the breeding of companion animals under inadequate conditions that fail to meet their behavioural, social and/or physiological needs (such as where dogs or cats are intensively bred in puppy or kitten farms/factories).
6.4Breeder registration, standards and traceability
6.4.1RSPCA Australia advocates a compulsory legislated registration and licensing system and mandatory standards for the conduct of dog and cat breeding, without exemption.
6.4.2RSPCA Australia supports mandatory breeder traceability for cats and dogs where each animal is identified and traceable to the breeder via their microchip and the breeder’s contact details are recorded on a recognised microchip register prior to sale or transfer.
6.4.3RSPCA Australia supports mandatory display of breeder registration/licence numbers at the point of sale and in all advertisements.
6.5

Selective breeding

RSPCA Australia is opposed to the selective breeding of companion animals which produces physical changes such as exaggerated features or behavioural changes detrimental to the animals’ health or welfare.

6.6

Inbreeding

RSPCA Australia is opposed to the inbreeding of companion animals including first degree (e.g. father to daughter) and second degree (e.g. grandfather to granddaughter) matings as this increases the incidence of inherited disorders and compromises immune system function which adversely impacts upon the health and welfare of companion animals.

6.7Wild-domestic hybrids
6.7.1RSPCA Australia opposes the hybridisation of wild species with domesticated animals for the purposes of creating new breeds of companion animals. The creation of wild-domestic hybrids is unnecessary, given the range of domesticated breeds and types already in existence, and there can be significant problems in the care and management of such animals.
6.7.2RSPCA Australia believes that government import requirements must be drafted to prevent wild-domestic hybrids from entering Australia. The importation of semen and other reproductive materials from wild species should only be permitted for bona fide agricultural or zoological purposes.

(reviewed 26/06/14)

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Updated on December 9, 2020

RSPCA policies reflect the best available evidence to direct and guide RSPCA and others, to promote and achieve good animal welfare outcomes.

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https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/rspca-policy-a06-breeding-of-companion-animals/

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