The RSPCA has developed the RSPCA Guidelines for the Online Advertising of Pets to assist websites who trade pets online.
As more Australians turn to the internet to search for their new pet, this has important implications for traceability, accountability and animal welfare.
The community expects platforms enabling the online sale of pets to actively protect the welfare of these animals, and make sure they’re not supporting poor animal welfare practices.
Each state and territory has basic legal obligations for the online sale of pets, that retailers must meet – but often, these requirements do not go far enough.
That’s why the RSPCA has developed these guidelines; in response to strong interest and demand from the community, and to help online retailers develop good policies that protect animals and improve consumer trust.
Please note, these Guidelines relate to the online advertising of companion animals. RSPCA Australia is opposed to the keeping of wild, native or introduced animals as pets or companions.
A copy of the guidelines can be found attached to this article.
