Victorians can now find out where their new pet has come from, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s Pet Exchange Register which comes into effect on 1 July.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today visited the RSPCA’s headquarters to detail how the new system will make it easier to detect and crack down on illegal puppy farms.
From Monday, all advertisements of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens for sale or free rehoming will need to include a source number linked to a person, breeder, business, rescue group, foster network or shelter.
The Pet Exchange Register will give Victorians peace of mind that their new furry family member has been bred ethically with animal welfare as a priority, allowing them to find out exactly where it’s come from.
All Victorians are encouraged to check the Pet Exchange Register to validate the source number in advertisements before buying or adopting a new pet. If there’s no source number – report the ad, and don’t buy the pet.
The launch of the Register builds on the Labor Government’s puppy farm legislation – with pet shops no longer permitted to sell dogs or cats unless they are from a registered shelter, pound or voluntarily-registered foster carer. In addition, breeders are banned from owning a pet shop or shelter.
For more information, to enrol or to report concern about a pet advertisement, visit per.animalwelfare.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes
“We know that Victorians really care about the welfare of their pets – that's why we’re making animal breeding more transparent, and making it easier to find out and shut down those who are doing the wrong thing.”
“It’s all about helping pet owners know where their new family member is coming from, and giving Victorians peace of mind that they’re not propping up backyard breeders and dodgy pet shops.”
Quote attributable to Member for Burwood Will Fowles
“This fantastic initiative will ensure that Victorian families know that when they bring a new puppy or kitten home, they’re adopting a pet that has been raised happily and healthily.”
Quote attributable to RSPCA chief executive Dr Liz Walker
“We encourage every single person looking for a new puppy, kitten, dog or cat to use the pet exchange register to find out exactly where their potential pet has come from. People need to be sure that the animal has been raised and cared for appropriately and that they are not unknowingly supporting illegal breeders.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020