Public to help shape new breeder licensing scheme as part of puppy farms ban
The toughest breeder licensing scheme in the nation is being implemented to support the state government's ban on large-scale puppy farms and hold irresponsible breeders to account.
South Australians can have their say on the scheme setting out minimum standards for the management of breeding animals with stronger penalties, helping to stamp out cruel practices in the sector.
Under the changes, breeders will undergo a rigorous assessment to obtain a licence – including providing a detailed history and background checks. A licence will not be granted if an applicant, or spouse/partner, has been convicted of certain offences.
The reforms also enable breeder licences to be suspended and cancelled for non-compliance – with penalties increased to a maximum of $10,000.
It builds on new laws passed in June to prevent puppy factories from being set up in SA and regulations currently in place that limit how many dogs a breeder can house.
The public are encouraged to provide feedback on stricter limits proposed under the new breeder licensing scheme, including:
- Twenty female dogs per breeding facility/site.
- Fifty female dogs per breeding program, enabling oversight for larger breeding programs where animals are housed at multiple locations.
- A maximum of five litters per breeding female.
- A maximum of two litters every 18 months per breeding female.
- A minimum breeding age of 12 months and maximum of six years.
Individual limits on the number of female dogs will be applied to each breeder’s licence, based on information provided during the application process.
Mandatory reporting of each litter has also been introduced.
To help shape the reforms, head to the YourSAy site. Consultation is open until Friday, 13 February.
The new breeder licensing scheme is expected to take effect early next year, allowing time for upgraded processes and systems to be developed.
Dog and Cat Management Board member Associate Professor Susan Hazel said breeders had a responsibility to ensure appropriate standards of care for dogs and cats.
"The new standards and guidelines for breeding will provide benchmarks to improve confidence in the sector," Prof Hazel said.
