Proposed new laws to stop puppy farming in WA…
Proposed new laws and changes to the Dog Act 1976
The Dog Amendment (Stop Puppy Farming) Bill 2021 (the Bill) has been introduced into Parliament.
Dog breeding is currently unregulated in Western Australia. This has resulted in some dog breeders disguising their operations, to avoid detection by authorities while continuing to breed in an irresponsible manner.
As a result, the government is proposing to introduce mandatory dog sterilisation and dog breeder approval to regulate the breeding of dogs.
A centralised registration system will also be introduced to assist authorities in sharing information and to monitor dog owners and breeders. Pet shops that sell dogs will be required to transition to rehoming rescue dogs only.
The laws will help prevent cruelty, and give the community confidence their puppies have come from legitimate and traceable sources.
In addition, muzzling requirements for pet or retired racing greyhounds when in public places will be removed, making greyhounds more desirable as pets. Greyhounds will still be required to be kept on a lead in public areas.
The Bill will be debated in Parliament before the provisions become law. A public awareness campaign will inform the community about when the provisions will come into effect.
Further information about the Bill is available at the Department of Local Government Sport and Cultural Industries’ website.