The NSW inquiry into companion animal breeding handed down their findings yesterday.
The Committee has made four findings and 34 recommendations. Important among these are:
- the introduction of a breeders’ licensing system for all commercial dog and cat breeding in NSW and the requirement that when advertising the sale of dogs and cats, via any medium, that the breeder identification and animal microchip numbers be displayed
- that pet shop sales not be banned because a ban would lead to less scrutiny of animal sales without improving welfare
- that the NSW Government implement the recommendations of the Companion Animals Taskforce as a priority
- a finding that the number of animals kept by a breeder is not in itself a factor that determines the welfare of breeding animals
- need for a common database and better coordination between the enforcement agencies, including local government, in NSW to remove inefficiencies, duplication and achieve better animal welfare outcomes.
As expected, this inquiry generated a huge level of interest in the community and the media, receiving 344 submissions, a petition containing 3,000 signatures, and over 2,200 emails and other correspondence. The inquiry heard evidence from 42 witnesses at the three public hearings held in Armidale and Sydney during July.
PIAA CEO Mark Fraser said the association was very pleased with the outcome. “Our submission to the inquiry focused on the abolition of puppy mills via a self-funded and audited licensing system. We also lobbied tirelessly against the banning of companion animal sales in pet shops and the committee has agreed with the possible negative consequences should the ban have been implemented. A central microchip database is also crucial to the concept, and the Committee has recognised the importance if this.
PIAA continues to advocate for its members and the industry at large. The pet industry combines a diverse collection of sectors, all with specific needs. We aim to continue to voice our concerns and work with the relevant entities to improve animal welfare and the industry at large.”
The Final Report of the Joint Select Committee on Companion Animal Breeding Practices in New South Wales can be downloaded in full by visiting parliament.nsw.gov.au or by clicking HERE