The McGowan Government is prioritising plans to end puppy farming in Western Australia by reintroducing the Stop Puppy Farming legislation into State Parliament.
A key McGowan Government election commitment in 2017, the proposed laws have been overwhelmingly supported by the community and the animal welfare sector, however, were not supported by the Liberal and National parties.
The Stop Puppy Farming legislation, which also includes reforms to de-muzzle greyhounds, involves changes to the Dog Act 1976 that minimise the number of dogs suffering neglect and requiring rehoming by regulating the breeding and sale of dogs in WA.
The proposed new laws include:
- mandatory dog sterilisation by two years of age;
- the transition of pet shops into adoption centres;
- a centralised registration system to hold information on dogs, cats and approved breeders, to assist with monitoring and enforcement; and
- the de-muzzling of pet greyhounds.
Additionally, when purchasing a dog from a dog owner, breeder or approved pet shop in Western Australia, information must be given to consumers that may assist them in determining whether the dog has been ethically bred and raised.
The Bill also includes an exemption for livestock working dogs to be sterilised by two years of age.
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.
For more information about the proposed laws, visit http://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/stoppuppyfarming
As stated by Local Government Minister John Carey:
"As a dog owner, I am passionate about getting these laws delivered to ensure we protect the welfare of dogs and give people greater confidence they've come from a reputable breeder."
"This legislation has overwhelming support from the community, which is not surprising given one third of WA households count a dog as a member of their family.
"The Government wanted this bill passed in the previous term of government, but this was another piece of critical legislation that was not supported by the Liberal Party and National Party.
"Our Government is committed to delivering on these important laws to help prevent cruelty, and give people confidence their puppies have come from legitimate and traceable sources.
"The legislation will also include reforms to de-muzzle greyhounds, which will be great news for many dog owners.
"Considering one third of WA households have a pet dog, this reform is a no-brainer and I strongly encourage the Opposition to support the Bill to help protect the health and welfare of dogs in Western Australia."
