Sample Code of Ethics
This Code of Ethics is presented as a guide for members whose aim
is the welfare of all dogs. The purpose of these guidelines is to set
forth minimum principles of practice to which the Club subscribes to.
These guidelines are presented with the realization that ethics are
difficult to regulate. When in doubt of any of these ethics, an owner
should consult with authorities such as experienced, reputable
breeders, veterinarians or the club Ethics Committee.
Article I
Health
All dogs shall be kept in a clean, healthy, and safe
environment. Dogs will be provided with vaccinations, worming,
anti-parasite treatments, and socialization, to provide maximum
mental and physical well being. If a dog must be euthanized it should
be humanely performed.
Article II
Breeding
An ethical breeder's goal and responsibility is to produce
the healthiest and best representatives of the breed possible. Each
litter shall be the result of conscientious planning, including
consideration of health, soundness, and temperament. Only healthy,
mature adult dogs shall be used in a breeding program. Veterinarian
consultation, should be taken when breeding a bitch over seven (7)
years and under 18 months of age. Breeders are encouraged to screen
for all appropriate hereditary disorders (example: hip dysplasia)
Article III.
Sales
Breeders should be concerned with the proper placement of
puppies, both pet and show quality. Breed type and potential owners
family structure, living conditions and time schedules should be
carefully considered. Breeders are encouraged to use sales contracts,
signed by the breeder and purchaser with each party keeping a signed
copy. Sales contracts should state the terms of sale, guarantees, and
restrictions. Breeders shall urge purchasers to spay or neuter any
dog which is not considered breedable quality. If puppies with
serious defects are sold, the breeder should inform the purchaser in
writing and require that the dog is spayed or neutered. Members will
not "Give away" or sell puppies or adult dogs as prizes or for
research, neither will they sell puppies to nor breed to dogs owned
by those whom they have reason to believe may do so. Registration
applications, certificates and a bill of sale stating sire, dam, and
date of birth shall accompany puppies as they go new homes. Breeders
shall furnish the buyer with written details on feeding, dates of
inoculations, worming, and general care of the dog. Responsibility of
the breeder does not stop with the sale. The breeder should be
available for consultation and to assist in the placement of any dog
sold by the breeder if such need arises.
Article IV.
Registration and Records
All members shall keep complete and accurate records of
individual dogs, breedings, litters, pedigrees, and puppy sales as
required by the DRA, and abide by the DRA rules and regulations.
Article V.
Exhibition
Members shall abide by the rules and regulations of the
Club and the DRA under which the event is held. Show grounds should
be left in a clean condition. Lodging: Regulations of hotels
permitting dogs should be followed. Other guests of the hotel should
be considered. Disturbances should be attended to immediately and
steps taken to prevent further occurrences.
Members should not make false, misleading or disparaging
statements regarding a judge, exhibitor, fellow member, another dog,
or misrepresent their own dogs. Alleged misconduct should be
objectively and calmly presented to the proper representative of the
Club.
Members shall do all within their power to uphold,
promote, and protect the interests of the club and the breed by
conducting themselves in a manner reflecting credit on the Club, its
members, their dogs, and the dog world in general.