Online shopping for puppies: a study in South Australia

Authors: Hazel S
Publication: Proceedings of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Annual Conferences, Volume 2014 AVA Annual Conference, Perth, Issue Welfare, May 2014
Publisher: Australian Veterinary Association

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Abstract: The welfare of companion animals used for breeding is an important issue around the world, and has been the subject of recent parliamentary debate. In South Australia in late 2012, a Select Committee was formed on Dogs and Cats as Companion Animals, with a focus on their breeding and sale (Select Committee on Dogs and Cats as Companion Animals, 2012). The final recommendations were released in July 2013, and included introducing an enforceable breeding standard and licencing scheme for all breeders of companion animals. While the Parliamentary Inquiry led to valuable discussion, it is difficult to formulate evidence-based policy when there is a lack of evidence regarding where and why people source their companion animals. The focus of this presentation will be on sources of puppies, including in some detail puppies available on internet sites, and using South Australia as a case study.

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