RSPCA withdraws its opposition to the sale of pets in pet shops
In a new policy statement adopted 28th October 2008 the RSPCA amended section A2.1 from “The RSPCA is opposed to the sale of animals from pet shops” to the following:
“RSPCA Australia believes that acquiring a companion animal should be the result of careful planning and a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved. Prospective owners should carefully consider whether they have and will continue to have, the facilities, time, financial means and level of interest necessary to ensure a satisfactory standard of care for their animals”
The policy goes on [A2.2]to encourage prospective owners to consider adopting an animal from the RSPCA (or other reputable animal rescue organisation) and wherever possible [A2.3] acquire the animal directly from the place where they are born. RSPCA Australia also advocates [A2.5] a compulsory registration and licensing system for all outlets selling companion animals (including shops, breeders, veterinary clinics and shelters). The conditions under which the animals are kept and presented for sale must be detailed in a code of practice with compliance with the code of practice made a condition of licensing.
What does this mean for the pet shop?
There has never been any evidence that pet shops were the cause of the excessive number of animals at the pounds and shelters. This message has been put forward by the Pet Industry Association, acknowledged by the Australian Veterinary Association. Those opposing the sale of pets in pet shops must now accept that they have been wrong and must look where the problem lies.
The above information was extracted with permission of Pet Industry News from their website www.petnews.com.au on 13/11/2008.
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