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The VICTORIAN PET DOGS and NOVICE BREEDERS ASSOCIATION

VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities

Table of Contents

BUSINESS SUMMARY 5

KEY BUSINESS AREAS 6

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:

1 REGULATIONS1.1 Introduction1.1.1 Introduction 111.1.2 Code of Ethics 12

1.2 Feeding1.2.1 Non-breeding Dogs 141.2.2 Breeding Dogs 161.2.3 Puppies 1871.2.4 Food Storage 19

1.3 Preventative Health Care1.3.1 Adult Dogs 201.3.2 Puppies 221.3.3 When to Call the Vet 24

1.4 Grooming1.4.1 Grooming and Skin Care – Adult Dogs 261.4.2 Grooming and Skin Care – Puppies 27

1.5 Retirement1.5.1 Breeding Dogs 28

1.6 Euthanasia1.6.1 Breeding Dogs and Non-breeding Dogs 301.6.2 Puppies 31

1.7 Socialisation1.7.2 Breeding Dogs 321.7.1 Puppies 33

1.8 Sales1.8.1 Retail Outlets 341.8.2 Private Sales – Cooling Off Period 351.8.5 Re-homing Policy 361.8.3 Private Sales – Pre-existing Health Problems 371.8.4 Information for New Owners 38

1.9 Warranties1.9.1 Warranties 39

1.10 Desexing1.10.1 Breeding Dogs 401.10.2 Puppies 41


Contents

2

Table of Contents

1.11 Housing1.11.1 Husbandry 421.11.2 Outside Run 441.11.3 Holding Pens 461.11.4 Whelping Shed 481.11.5 Laundry 501.11.6 Design 51

1.12 Inventory1.12.1 Inventory 54

1.13 Selection of Breeding Stock1.13.1 Breeding Objectives 551.13.2 Breeding – Pedigrees and Recording 571.13.3 Breeding – Crossbreeding Systems 591.13.4 Glossary of Breeding Terms 61

1,14 Emergency Management Plan1.14.1 Emergency Plan for Dogs 64

1.15 Pest Control1.15.1 Pest Control 65

2 MEMBERSHIP2.1.1 Benefits 662.1.2 Privacy Act 672.1.3 Accreditation 682.1.4 Associate Members 692.1.5 Members 712.1.6 Termination of Membership 72

3 REGISTRATION OF DOGS3.1.1 Identification of Dogs 733.2.1 Litter Recording 74

4 INSPECTION OF FACILITY4.1.1 Physical Inspection 75

5 TRANSFERS5.1.1 Transfer of Dogs or a Dog Between Members 76

6 COMMUNICATION6.1.1 Communication with AAPDB 776.1.2 Communication with Members 786.1.3 Communication with Councils 796.1.4 Communication with Media 806.1.5 Communication with the Public 81

7 HUMAN RESOURCES7.1.1 Training 827.1.2 Team Profile 83


Contents

3

Table of Contents

8 DOCUMENTATION8.1 Human Resources8.1.1 Interview Questions 848.1.2 Reference Check 858.1.3 Personnel Record 86

8.2 Facility8.2.1 Calculating Rations 878.2.2 Condition Score 888.2.3 Guide to Nutritional Content 898.2.4 Flea Treatment Protocol 908.2.5 Vaccination Record 918.2.6 Puppy Bags 928.2.7 Daily Worklist/Checklist 938.2.8 Pet Store Checklist 948.2.9 Membership Application 958.2.10 Re-homing Facilities 978.2.11 Matrix Dog size vs. Pen Size 98

8.3 Dogs8.3.1 Individual Dog Health Record 998.3.2 Annual Kennel Breeding Summary Sheet 1008.3.3 Individual Bitch Breeding Summary Sheet 1018.3.4 Individual Dog Breeding Summary Sheet 1028.3.5 Individual Illness Sheet 1038.3.6 Individual Summary Sheet 1048.3.7 Joining Sheet 1058.3.8 Litter Record 1068.3.9 Management Timetable and Checklist 1078.3.10 Puppy Health Record 108


Contents

4

Ancillary and Associate Members Summary

Name: Address: City: Postcode: State:

Email: Phone :

Members SummaryMembers name: Description: Age: Microchip number:

Members name: Description: Age: Microchip number:

Members name: Description: Age: Microchip number:

Mission Statement

The VPDNBA is committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of its registered members. All VPDNBA registered members are the dogs of Victorian families who have requested ancillary membership as the home owners of VPDNBA member. All ancillary members are required to maintain an absolute commitment to the mental and physical wellbeing of VPDNBA registered members in their care.

Ancillary members must be committed to appropriate animal welfare requirements and have the belief that as dog breeders they have responsibilities to ensure they breed their VPDNBA registered members in the belief they are providing dogs suitable for their intended market and to ensure the commitment of the people who purchase those dogs and to the adequate vetting of them as responsible pet owners.


Business Summary

5

Key Business Areas

REGULATIONSDefinitionsDescription

FeedingDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:

1.2.2 Breeding Dogs1.2.3 Puppies1.2.1 Non-breeding Dogs1.2.4 Food Storage

Preventative Health CareDescription


1.3.1 Adult Dogs1.3.2 Puppies1.3.3 Health – When to Call the Vet

GroomingDescription


1.4.1 Grooming and Skin Care – Adult Dogs1.4.2 Grooming and Skin Care – Puppies

RetirementDescription


1.5.1 Breeding Dogs

EuthanasiaDescription


1.6.1 Breeding Dogs and Non-breeding Dogs1.6.2 Puppies

Health ProgramDescription

SocialisationDescription


1.7.1 Puppies1.7.2 Breeding Dogs


Key Business Area

Key Business Areas

SalesDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.8.1 Retail Outlets1.8.2 Private Sales – Cooling Off Period1.8.3 Private Sales – Pre-existing Health Problems1.8.4 Information for New Owners1.8.5 Standards

DesexingDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.10.1 Breeding Dogs1.10.2 Puppies

HousingDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.11.2 Outside Run1.11.3 Holding Pens1.11.4 Whelping Shed1.11.5 Laundry1.11.6 Design1.11.1 Husbandry

InventoryDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.12.1 Inventory

TrainingDescription

Team ProfileDescription

WarrantiesDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.9.1 Warranties


Key Business Areas

Key Business Areas

Selection of Breeding StockDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.13.1 Breeding Objectives1.13.2 Breeding – Pedigrees and Recording1.13.3 Breeding – Crossbreeding Systems1.13.4 Glossary of Breeding Terms

IntroductionDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.1.1 Introduction1.1.2 Code of Ethics

Emergency Management PlanDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.14.1 Emergency Plan for Dogs

Pest ControlDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:1.15.1 Pest Control

Roles/Positions Supporting this Key Business Group• Breeder• Store


Key Business Areas

8

Key Business Areas

MEMBERSHIPDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:2.1.4 Associate Members2.1.6 Termination of Membership2.1.3 Accreditation2.1.1 Benefits2.1.2 Privacy Act2.1.5 Members

REGISTRATION OF DOGSLitter RecordingDescription


3.2.1 Litter Recording

Identification of DogsDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area: i3.1.1 Identification of Dogs

INSPECTION OF FACILITYDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:4.1.1 Physical Inspection

TRANSFERSDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:5.1.1 Transfer of Dogs or a Dog Between Members

COMMUNICATIONDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:6.1.1 Communication with AAPDB6.1.2 Communication with Members6.1.3 Communication with Councils6.1.4 Communication with Media6.1.5 Communication with the Public


Key Business Areas

Key Business Areas

HUMAN RESOURCESStaffDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:7.1.1 Training7.1.2 Team Profile

DOCUMENTATIONHuman ResourcesDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:8.1.3 Personnel Record8.1.1 Interview Questions8.1.2 Reference Check

FacilityDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:8.2.1 Calculating Rations8.2.2 Condition Score8.2.3 Guide to Nutritional Content8.2.4 Flea Treatment Protocol8.2.5 Vaccination Record8.2.6 Puppy Bags8.2.7 Daily Worklist/Checklist8.2.8 Pet Store Checklist8.2.9 Membership Application8.2.10 Re-homing Facilities8.2.11 Matrix Dog Size vs. Pen Size

DogsDescription

Policies and procedures supporting this key business area:8.3.1 Individual Dog Health Record8.3.2 Annual Kennel Breeding Summary Sheet8.3.3 Individual Bitch Breeding Summary Sheet8.3.4 Individual Dog Breeding Summary Sheet8.3.5 Individual Illness Sheet8.3.6 Individual Summary Sheet8.3.7 Joining Sheet8.3.8 Litter Record8.3.9 Management Timetable and Checklist8.3.10 Puppy Health Record8.3.11 Puppy Management Timetable – Calculation

Sheet


Key Business Areas

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 IntroductionThe Victorian Pet Dog and Novice Breeders Association (VPDNBA) is an association that is entrusted with ensuring its ancillary members are committed to keeping their pet dogs healthy and well balanced. They are also responsible for the breeding of their pet dogs for Australian families while maintaining a commitment enshrining the mental and physical wellbeing of their VPDNBA members.

The VPDNBA has been established to ensure the registration of all responsible pet dog breeders and owners. The various Canine Councils throughout Australia set a range of welfare standards for stud-registered purebred dog breeders. However many prospective pet owners do not want to purchase a stud-registered purebred dog, they simply want to embrace the oldest inter animal experience the World has known; the relationship between a pet dog and a human. Prior to the formation of this association there was no identified entity responsible for breeders of crossbred dogs, nor a registry solely for pet dogs.

Ancillary Members of VPDNBA are committed to animal welfare and believe that all dog breeders and owners have responsibilities to the dogs they breed and to the people who purchase those dogs.

The VPDNBA fulfils this commitment to its members by encoding standards for breeding and sale of dogs to which all ancillary members are obliged to adhere. Ancillary members are committed to breeding dogs which make suitable pets for particular situations. They are also committed to encouraging responsible pet ownership by providing appropriate information about the dogs they breed, and about their responsibilities as pet owners.

VPDNBA ancillary members know that pet dog ownership enhances human lives. They enjoy being an essential part of this relationship and they will not compromise animal welfare in the process.

Dog breeders who join the VPDNBA acknowledge dog breeding and dog ownership has serious responsibilities. They further acknowledge that dogs bred from can be expected to live to 12 to 14 years of age and that only half of their lives are likely to be spent breeding. VPDNBA ancillary members accept this responsibility by ensuring that all breeding dogs are well cared for and loved throughout their entire lifetime.

Membership of the VPDNBA provides significant protection for its members by insisting ongoing compliance with our standards by all ancillary members. These standards are also designed to ensure suitable and well prepared puppies are bred to go to their prospective new owners.Compliance with these standards not only allows ancillary members to deliver suitable and well prepared pet dogs, but provides members with an independent voice seeking to protect the high quality of care they are entitled to expect throughout their entire life.


Policies and Procedures

Regulations

11

1.1 Introduction

1.1.2 Code of EthicsMembership requirements

1. Ancillary members shall read and understand the Victorian Pet Dog and Novice Breeders Association Standards and agree to abide by these Standards.

2. Ancillary members shall read and understand the relevant local government codes and state legislation (see links on VPDNBA website). Where these practices might conflict with Victorian Pet Dog and Novice Breeders Association standards, local government and state codes will apply – unless the codes reduce the level of care and responsibility required by VPDNBA breeders and owners – in which case VPDNBA standards will apply.

3. Associate Members shall allow their property to be inspected annually by a person nominated by the VPDNBA Executive after being admitted as an Ancillary member.

Husbandry requirements

4. Ancillary members shall ensure that their dogs are under effective control at all times.

5. Ancillary members shall feed their dogs a balanced diet appropriate to their life stage.

6. Ancillary members shall keep their dogs appropriately vaccinated, groomed and free from internal and external parasites and seek veterinary attention promptly for any dogs showing symptoms of illness.

7. Ancillary members shall not house their dogs in cages for any reason other than transport, breeding or treatment of illnesses.

8. Ancillary members shall not house dogs permanently in individual pens. Animals should spend most of their life in communal runs as described in the VPDNBA Standards.

9. Ancillary members shall not euthanise retired breeding dogs. Retired dogs should be de-sexed, and kept as pets.

10. Ancillary members must ensure that puppies are vaccinated, free from internal parasites and that they are appropriately socialised as outlined in the VPDNBA Standards.



Regulations

12

1.1 Introduction

Sale of puppies

11. Ancillary members should only sell their puppies from 8 weeks of age onward and after vaccination at 6 weeks. Ancillary members shall never sell a puppy that has not been microchipped.

12. Members should sell their puppies either

a. Only after receiving proof of identification from the prospective new owner.

b. After explaining the responsibilities of dog ownership and the value of de-sexing should they not wish to breed the dog.

c. Introduce the prospective dog owner to the VPDNBA

d. Keep an accurate record of the buyers of all puppies bred and in their care.

13. Ancillary members shall not sell puppies to children under the age of 18 and shall not sell puppies at shows or markets.

14. Ancillary members shall accurately describe the breeding of the puppies they sell as outlined in the VPDNBA Breeding terminology.

Post-sale obligations

15. Ancillary members shall offer a three day “cooling off” period after the private sale of a puppy during which time the pup can be returned and the purchase price refunded, excluding any non-refundable deposits paid.

16. Ancillary members shall provide new puppy owners with information regarding feeding, veterinary care and training of their puppies.

17. Ancillary members shall undertake to take back and re-home any dog they have bred at any stage in the animal’s life should it become homeless for any reason.



Regulations

13

1.2 Feeding

1.2.1 Non-breeding DogsStandard

The standard guide to feeding non-breeding dogs is to feed 2 grams protein for every 1 kg. Lean body weight. The diet should contain a minimum of 20% protein of animal origin and 14% fat with a balance of Omega 6 to Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) of approximately 10-20:1. Dogs should be maintained in body score “3”. They should be fed appropriate bones or commercial dental chews for dental health and for environmental enrichment.

Dry dog food should be stored in rodent proof containers and should not be stored beyond the product “use by” date.

Fish oil and animal food grade linseed oil should be refrigerated

Why you should do it

Plant proteins do not provide a balanced supply of all the amino acids dogs require for healthy growth and maintenance

Dogs have a basic Maintenance Energy Requirement, which is met by fat and carbohydrate in the diet. Fat can safely constitute between 20 and 40% of dietary energy and inadequate total fat nutrition will produce poor coat, scurfy skin and a predisposition to “hot spots”.

There is increasing evidence that the ratio of Omega 6:Omega 3 EFAs in diet is important in brain development, nerve function, immune system function, skin health, joint health and aging. Omega 6 EFAS are derived largely from plant sources, Omega 3 EFAs are found in linseed and walnut oils, organ meats and lean meat from grass fed animals and in fish oils.

Fibre in a dogs diet can interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals and commercial diets meeting “Minimum standards” are based on grain and may have unbalanced protein, inadequate fat levels, excessive amounts of omega 6:omega 3 EFAs and too much fibre.

Dental disease is common among older dogs especially small breeds. Dental disease can be reduced or prevented by giving dogs appropriate raw bones to chew regularly. Bones should be raw and from young growing animals. Cooked bones and bones from old animals can splinter and be difficult to digest. They may cause constipation or obstructions and should not be fed.

Kenneling your dogs has been shown they are more active than free in a yard and so have a higher maintenance energy and protein requirement when this occurs.

Overweight dogs will develop age related health problems on average 2 years earlier than lean dogs.

Excessively lean bitches may have fertility problems.



Regulations

14

1.2 Feeding

Things to do & how to check it has been done

Premium quality commercial dog foods are designed to meet the requirements for dogs at different life stages. Products such as ADVANCE will meet the all the dietary needs of non-breeding dogs.

Cheap commercial dog foods based on “minimum standards” are often not adequate for sole nutrition for non-breeding dogs but could be used as a basis for an appropriate ration. Look for products with the lowest fibre content and highest fat and protein content.

Working dog formulas are usually adequate for maintenance and among these some are better than others.

Supplements which can be added to a basic ration of working dog “Kibble” include:

• Kangaroo meat – an excellent protein supplement. Roo meat has only 2% fat and so is inadequate as the only addition to a dry food ration but the little fat in roo meat is high in Omega 3-EFAs.

• Eggs with shell are an excellent supplement, adding high quality protein, vitamins and calcium. Raw eggs whites contain avidin, which binds with biotin (a B complex vitamin) and makes it unavailable as a nutrient so eggs should be lightly cooked if they make up a significant part of the diet.

• Milk powder is a high quality protein source however some dogs will react badly to the lactose and develop diarrhoea.

• Green vegetables, cooked or raw and pureed, provide antioxidants and vitamins

• Raw meaty bones provide good quality protein, vitamins, minerals and keep dogs teeth clean and their stools firm. Marrow is a source of fat and vitamins. Bones should be raw, from young growing animals, and larger than the dog can swallow. Butchers bones or Kangaroo tails are excellent bones for larger dogs, chicken wings, necks and carcasses are excellent for smaller dogs

Excessive fat may cause diarrhoea or pancreatitis especially if the dog is overweight and/or the diet is changed suddenly

VPDNBA tools & support

VPDNBA Body Score Chart



Regulations

15

1.2 Feeding

1.2.2 Breeding DogsStandard

Pregnant bitches should be fed a ration that maintains their body weight through pregnancy and lactation. The ration should contains at least 28% protein (animal source-based) and 20% fat with an omega-6:3 ratio of 5:1 to 10:1).


To achieve maximum fertility and good health bitches should not be underweight at the end of lactation. To maintain her body weight a bitch’s total nutrient intake should increase to 1.5 times normal (maintenance) by birth and to 2-4 times normal by the 3rd week of lactation – this can only be achieved if the ration is “nutrient dense” – i.e. if it is high in fat and protein and low in plant fibre or other indigestible matter such as bones.

Puppies perform better in training exercises if they and their mothers are fed omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil (a source of DHA an Omega –3 Essential Fatty Acid (O3-EFA) found in brain and nerve cell walls).

Optimally fed puppies will have soft shiny coats and will be resistant to stress related disease during rehoming.


Premium dog food (such as ADVANCE ACTIVE) specifically aimed at active working and breeding dogs will meet the nutritional requirements of pregnant and lactating dogs.

Premium quality commercial puppy food will provide the all nutritional requirements necessary for pregnancy and lactation, and some such as ADVANCE PUPPY have DHA supplementation.

Mixing dry food with quality canned dog food (such as ADVANCE PUPPY PLUS GROWTH) may increase palatability and so total food intake and canned food is usually higher in protein and fat than dry food.

Lightly cooked Eggs are the most digestible source of protein available, and can be added to the ration to increase the total protein, fat, vitamins and minerals and 0mega3-EFA’s. Whole eggs with shell are a completely balanced addition to the diet as egg shells provide readily digestible calcium.

Minced fatty meat can be used to increase the protein and fat, and organ meat such as liver (not more than once or twice weekly to prevent excessive Vitamin A intake) will provide protein, fat, and vitamins – in particular vitamin D and DHA.

A Fish oil capsule daily is an adequate source of supplementary O3-EFA’s



Regulations

16

1.2 Feeding

Canned Australian salmon in brine and tinned sardines in water (but not oil) are an economical source of protein, calcium and fish oil which can be added dry food.

Linseed oil is rich in ALA a plant O3-EFA. It is cheaper than fish oil and can be used to supplement bitches feeding young puppies. Puppies can convert ALA to DHA when they are suckling and so respond to linseed oil supplementation.


VPDNBA Body Score Chart


Regulations

17

1.2 Feeding

1.2.3 PuppiesStandard

Puppies should be fed a diet appropriate for optimal growth and functional development this should contain at least 28% protein and 20% fat. Protein should be good quality and fats should include adequate Essential Fatty Acids. Puppies should be neither thin or over fat.


Nutrition in the first few weeks of life has been shown to affect the lifelong health and well being of pet dogs.

Puppies need high quality (animal based) protein, fat and balanced vitamins and mineral.

Puppies have been shown to perform better in training programs if they receive adequate DHA (an Omega 3 Fatty Acid found in fish oil) in their diet.

Puppies do not need fibre, which can interfere with the absorption of some nutrients. Carbohydrate can provide some of their energy needs but they can become fat and yet still undernourished on diets based on wheatbix, farex or porridge.

Over fat puppies are more likely to grow into obese adult dogs and underweight pups or pups fed a diet unbalanced in protein and fat are more susceptible to infection and environmental stress.

Dietary changes at the time of rehoming are likely to cause gastric upsets,


Premium puppy biscuits (such as PUPPY ADVANCE) are appropriately formulated to wean puppies and feed them through to 4 – 5 months of age.

Premium puppy biscuits softened in milk or water can be adequate for introducing pups to solid food at 2-3 weeks of age.

Puppies weaned on to a premium puppy biscuits can be re-homed with a sample of their food and this will minimise the risk of diarrhoea related to changes in diet adding to the stress of re homing.

It is possible to formulate rations that will be suitable and a diet appropriately formulated for feeding the dam will be suitable for puppies.

Egg custard is palatable, easily digested and a well balance supplementary diet for pups – it can be mixed with softened biscuits to start introducing solids.

Fish oil capsules can be used to increase EFAs in the diet but are not necessary if premium biscuits with added EFAs (such as PUPPY ADVANCE) are used.


An ADVANCE puppy pack will be supplied for every puppy registered on the VPDNBA web site



Regulations

18

1.2 Feeding

1.2.4 Food StorageStandard

Dry food should be stored at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and in air tight rodent proof containers. It should not be used beyond the manufacturers “use by” date.

Canned food once opened and should not be stored for more than 2-3 days and should be stored in a refrigerator. It can be kept frozen for longer periods.

Bones and raw meat can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days but should be frozen if kept for longer periods

Eggs should be kept in the fridge.

Fish oil and food grade linseed oil must be kept in the fridge


Rodents carry disease, particularly Leptospirosis which can cause serious illness or death.

Unsaturated fats are sensitive to heat and will become rancid if in food stored exposed to air and high temperatures.

Meat, bones and eggs can cause serious illnesses such as Salmonella and Botulism if they are kept at temperatures which allow the growth of these bacteria.


Have adequate airtight containers for the storage of opened bags of dry food and a refrigerator and freezer if fresh or canned food is stored for long periods




Regulations

19

1.3 Preventative Health Care

1.3.1 Adult DogsStandard

Breeding dogs must be appropriately vaccinated and be treated regularly to prevent internal and external parasites. Records must be kept of treatments given. All breeding dogs should be vaccinated in accordance with veterinary advice. Quarantine should be observed prior to the introduction of new animals to a kennel.


Prevention of disease and external parasites is much easier than cure or eradication which can be time consuming, difficult and life-threatening,

The three easily prevented, life-threatening diseases are canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis and parvovirus.

Kennel cough, caused by Parainfluenza virus or Bordetella bacteria is a relatively minor disease but is highly infectious and kennels can become infected. Dogs can be asymptomatic carriers of Bordetella (a bacterial cause of kennel cough) and protection against this disease requires regular vaccination. The infection can cause coughing in puppies when they are subjected to the stress associated with re-homing.

Intestinal roundworms and hookworms can cause serious illness if not prevented.

Coccidia and Giardia are single-celled parasites which can cause diarrhoea. They can be carried by birds and contaminate water supplies. They usually cause mild disease in adult dogs but a carrier status can develop and puppies can be made seriously ill by these infections.

Fleas can cause skin irritation and carry tapeworm in breeding dogs and serious infestations can cause anaemia and even death in undernourished dogs.

Fleas, intestinal worms, Giardia, Coccidia and diarrhoea-causing bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can build up rapidly when puppies are raised on dirt floors.

Ear mites are very contagious and cause itching and predispose towards ear infections.

Demodectic mange is spread from bitch to puppies and severe disease is a sign of immune system problems in affected animals. Some breeds are more prone to this disease,

Sarcoptic or fox mange is highly contagious form of extreme itchiness and can present a serious problems in a kennel situation.

Treatment records are essential to the rational treatment and prevention of these common diseases.



Regulations

20



All breeding dogs must have an appropriate vaccination program developed in consultation with your veterinarian. A record of treatments must be recorded for each animal.

Kennel cough vaccination at 6-8 and 12 weeks and then annually is advisable. Intranasal kennel cough vaccine has been demonstrated to be effective in pups from as young as 5 weeks and has been used in 3 week old pups as part of an effective control program in an infected breeding kennel.

New dogs should be isolated for two weeks, wormed, treated for fleas and ear mites and be fully vaccinated before being introduced to the kennel.

All adult dogs should be wormed simultaneously at least every three months with a broad-spectrum wormer containing praziquantal for hydatid tape worm. These treatments must be recorded in a kennel diary.

Sarcoptic mange is a risk in rural areas where foxes are common. It should be diagnosed by a veterinarian and will require repeated simultaneous treatment of all dogs in the kennel.

Demodectic mange should be diagnosed by a veterinarian and regular occurrence of this disease should lead to a review of all breeding, feeding and management practices.

Ear mite and flea infestation in a kennel will require regular simultaneous treatment of all dogs in the kennel in order to eradicate them. Infection of pups with these external parasites will be seen as an indication of poor kennel management.

Fleas, mange and ear mites are best prevented by quarantine. To prevent the introduction of disease any dog being introduced to the kennel property should be fully vaccinated (including kennel cough vaccination) and wormed, should be treated for fleas, ear mites and sarcoptic mange and should be isolated from other kennel dogs for at least two weeks prior to introduction.

All routine preventative health treatments should be entered into the kennel diary at the beginning of each year and signed off when completed.


VPDNBA recommended health program for puppies and adult

dogs.

VPDNBA vaccination record folders.

VPDNBA health record sheets for breeding dogs.



Regulations

21



Puppies must be reared on impervious floors which are cleaned daily. They must be treated for worms every two weeks from birth until they are re-homed from 8 weeks. They must receive at least vaccination against distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus at 6 weeks. Every pup should be individually handled at least once every day.


Prevention of disease and external parasites is much easier than cure, which can be time consuming, difficult and life-threatening.

The three easily-prevented, life-threatening viral diseases, which affect pups are canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis and parvovirus.

Kennel cough, can cause coughing in puppies when they are subjected to the stress associated with re-homing. If kennel cough is a problem in the kennel then intranasal vaccination is recommended at 5 weeks of age.

Intestinal roundworms and hookworms can cause serious illness in puppies if the bitch and pups are not regularly treated for these parasites.

Coccidia and Giardia are single-celled parasites which can cause serious diarrhoea in puppies. They can be carried by birds and contaminate water supplies. These diseases can appear in apparently healthy puppies subjected to re-homing stress.

Fleas, intestinal worms, Giardia, Coccidia and diarrhoea-causing bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can build up rapidly when puppies are raised on dirt floors.

Puppies exposed to fleas when young may have poor coats and scurfy skin and so will not present well. They are more prone to flea allergy when they are older dogs.

Ear mites cause itching and ear infections. The signs may worsen with the stress of re-homing. Flea and mite infestations in pups reflect poorly on the kennel’s management.

If puppies are picked up and carefully examined each day early signs of health problems such as diarrhoea will be detected.

If pups are handled for 5 minutes daily they will develop faster socially and will learn more quickly than unhandled pups. This is an essential part of producing well socialised, confident puppies.


Puppies should always be raised on an impervious surface, such as concrete, which is washed daily and thoroughly disinfected between litters with a disinfectant that kills viruses, bacteria and parasites.



Regulations

22


Records should be kept for each litter of all preventative health treatments

Puppies should be picked up individually every day and checked for activity, weight and hydration. They should be weighed daily for the first three days to make sure they are feeding and gaining weight properly.

Puppies should be wormed every two weeks from birth.

Puppies should be vaccinated at 6 weeks against distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus and kennel cough vaccination is recommended. Vaccination against Coronavirus and Leptospirosis are at the discretion of the breeder.

If coccidiosis proves to be a problem pups can be treated with a “coccidiocide” at 5 and 7 weeks.

Puppies should have a routine preventative health treatment prior to departure. Even if the breeder is confident of kennel hygiene these treatments will give confidence that problems arising. Prior to re-homing the following treatments should be performed:

• clean ears with a registered ear wash product and then apply an ear drop effective against ear mites;

• wash with a non-irritant shampoo checking very carefully for fleas;

• dry and spray with a scented coat conditioner;

• worm with an “allwormer” containing praziquantal;

• apply a long-acting spot-on product which protects against fleas and preferably heartworm and ear mites for one month.


Litter Management Timetable and Checklist. Downloadable from the website as soon as puppies are born. This spreadsheet provided a timetable for key preventative health and management procedures and a checklist to ensure they are performed.

VPDNBAforms to go with each pup – downloadable from the website once puppies’ owners are recorded:• vaccination record;

• puppy care booklet;

• AAPDB covering letter to owner.

Puppy Pack containing:

• product samples including heartworm, internal and external parasite treatments;

• premium puppy food sample.

Delivered by post to breeder as soon as the pups are registered on the AAPDB database.



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1.3.3 Health – When to Call the VetStandard

Veterinary attention should always be sought promptly for animals showing any symptoms of illness. Any illnesses an animal experiences should be recorded.


Animal owners and breeders have a legal obligation to seek veterinary attention promptly if animals in their care are ill or injured. Failure to do so can lead to prosecution, heavy fines and bans on owning animals for protracted periods.

Animal breeders are experienced in many aspects of animal husbandry but they may not have veterinary training and should not assume that they know the appropriate treatments for animals that are injured or unwell.

Chronic or recurrent health issues can be overlooked if good individual animal health records are not kept.

Compliance with VPDNBAstandards requires individual treatment records be kept for all animals.


It is important for all breeders to have a good relationship with a veterinarian with whom they feel comfortable.

All animals in the kennel should be observed daily and veterinary advice should be sought for any animal that stops eating for more than 12 hours or that shows any of the following:

• runny nose;

• discharging or inflamed eyes;

• repeated sneezing;

• repeated coughing;

• repeated vomiting;

• severe diarrhoea, especially if bloodstained;

• lameness;

• inability to stand or walk;

• bleeding or swellings;

• unexplained weight loss;

• dystocia (difficult birth);

• behavioural changes.

Any abnormalities should be noted in the kennel diary and the individual animal’s health records.

The diary and health records should be checked as the first action of the day to ensure that problems are not forgotten or overlooked.



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24


VPDNBA

tools & support

VPDNBA

individual dog health record sheets (8.3.1).



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25

1.4 Grooming

1.4.1 Grooming and Skin Care – Adult DogsStandard

Coats should be inspected regularly for external parasites and dermatoses. Long haired dogs should be clipped regularly to prevent matting.


Dogs with matted coats look neglected and this reflects badly on kennel management.

Long haired dogs can easily become matted if not groomed appropriately. This can be uncomfortable and the hair can obscure vision and can hide problems such as ocular discharge-related dermatitis, fleas, bite wounds, lacerations and grass seeds, which can be deleterious to the dog’s health.

Fleas can build up rapidly under favourable conditions and can be expensive and time-consuming to eliminate once established in a kennel.


Long haired dogs are most easily managed in a kennel situation by being kept trimmed.

The minimum grooming requirements for long haired dogs which don’t shed, such as poodles, should be short clipping at least twice – in early spring and late summer and once again in mid-winter around the face, feet and anus.

A typical poodle clipping program would be:

September/October: full clip before grass seeds

mature December: full clip in the height of summer

March: final clip before winter – may leave some coat depending on the climate

July: “crutch and wigging”: a puppy clip – clipping the face, feet and anal region.

The clipping program should be entered into the kennel diary at the beginning of each year to ensure that it is performed in a timely fashion.



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1.4 Grooming

1.4.2 Grooming and Skin Care – PuppiesStandard

Puppies presented for sale should be clean and fresh-smelling and should be treated for internal and external parasites


The state of the puppy at the point of sale reflects comments on the breeder’s competence and management ability. A puppy owner may not be able to assess how healthy or well bred a puppy is but they can see and smell whether the puppy is clean.


Create a checklist of treatments on departure. With every litter tick off each treatment to ensure that nothing is forgotten.

Clean ears with a registered ear wash product and then apply an ear drop effective against ear mites.

Wash with a non-irritant shampoo checking very carefully for fleas.

Dry and spray with a scented coat conditioner.

Worm with an “allwormer” containing praziquantal.

Apply a long-acting spot-on product which protects against fleas and preferably heartworm, mange mites and ear mites for one month.



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1.5 Retirement


It is recommended that breeding bitches be retired and desexed by seven years of age. No bitch should be bred for more than 7 litters or after 8 years of age without written approval from a veterinary surgeon.

Retired bitches should be desexed and re-homed or kept as pets.

Retirement from breeding is never an acceptable reason for euthanasia.

Why you should do itBreeding dogs until they are worn out and prematurely aged presents welfare issues and cannot be seen to be in the best interest of the bitch and so cannot be acceptable to VPDNBA policy.

The traditional approach to this issue is to limit the number of litters that can be bred each year by only breeding a bitch every second season and not commencing breeding until at least the bitches third cycle:

• Free ranging, healthy, well nourished domestic dogs breed naturally twice a year and there are no adverse health implications of allowing healthy and appropriately nourished bitches to be bred on successive seasons.

• Young dogs are more fertile than older dogs.

• Preventing entire bitches from breeding naturally results in the development of cystic endometrial hyperplasia, a chronic thickening of the uterine wall, which is an inevitable consequence of going through a reproductive cycle without a pregnancy and which predisposes bitches to life-threatening uterine infections.

• The incidence of mammary cancer increases when entire bitches are prevented from breeding naturally.

Putting an absolute limit on the number of litters or age of the bitch is a more effective way of ensuring the welfare of the bitch than artificially limiting the frequency of breeding which can lead to bitches as old as nine or ten years being bred.

Retired bitches that are not desexed on retirement may be accidentally mated and will be prone to developing endometrial hyperplasia and potentially fatal pyometra. Desexing is therefore recommended to reduce the risk of mammary cancer.

State Codes of Practice may prevent breeding on successive cycles – the breeder should be aware of their code of practice and abide by any enforceable regulations.



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1.5 Retirement


Registration on the VPDNBA database will automatically result in a breeder being advised when their dog is approaching retirement.

Registration of litters from dogs over 7 years of age will require a veterinary certificate.

VPDNBAtools & support

VPDNBA list of sponsoring veterinary clinics.

VPDNBA individual animal treatment record sheets 8.3.1 Individual Dog Health Record.



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1.6 Euthanasia

1.6.1 Breeding Dogs and Non-breeding DogsStandardThe VPDNBA does not accept retirement from breeding as an appropriate reason for euthanasia.

Euthanasia is only acceptable if carried out by, and after consultation with, a qualified veterinarian in cases of:

1. Intractable behavioural problems that preclude the dog from being used for breeding and makes it inappropriate for re-homing.

2. Painful or life-threatening health problems that detract from the animal’s expectation of experiencing reasonable quality of life.

All deaths must be recorded on the VPDNBA database and include the reasons for the loss.

Some crisis situations such as ill-health, family breakup or zoning problems may result in a kennel being closed or threatened with closure. In this case VPDNBA members will undertake to help re-home animals where possible. However it is accepted that under some extreme circumstances it may be necessary to euthanase otherwise healthy dogs.



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1.6 Euthanasia


Euthanasia is only acceptable if carried out by, and after consultation with, a qualified veterinarian in cases of serious congenital abnormalities or painful or life-threatening health problems that detract from the animal’s expectation of experiencing reasonable quality of life.

All deaths must be recorded on the VPDNBA database and include the reasons for the loss.



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1.7 Socialisation


Dogs being retained for breeding should be raised with people from 8 weeks of age until they are at least 4 months old. During this time they should be exposed to traffic, unfamiliar people and unfamiliar dogs.

Why you should do itThe VPDNBA requires that breeding bitches should be retired at or before 8 years of age and that they should then be kept or re-homed as pets. Inorder to re-home these dogs they must be adequately socialised. Dogs raised in a kennel and never exposed to external influences will be extremely nervous and anxious in a new environment and are unlikely to make good pets.

The period from 8-16 weeks, and particularly 8-12 weeks, is critical for socialisation of puppies. If they are not socialised properly in this period they are unlikely to make well adjusted pets later in life.


If a breeder is too busy to provide this kind of socialisation they should have an arrangement with a family or families to provide puppy socialisation.




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1.7 Socialisation


Each puppy should be handled daily from birth. If they are kept beyond 8 weeks they should live in close association with people and not in a kennel with only dogs for company.


If pups are handled daily they have been shown to develop more quickly and be easier to train. Well socialised pups that are accustomed to regular handling will settle more quickly and with less stress into their new homes.

8-12 weeks of age is a critical period of socialisation for young pups. In this period they should be exposed to as many and varied non-threatening experiences as possible if they are to grow into adaptable, well adjusted dogs.


Spend at least 5 minutes with each litter of puppies each day – just handling and observing them. Watch for timid pups and spend extra time with them. Make notes regarding timidity and boldness of puppies to help new owners choose appropriate pups or to advise owners choosing their pups whenre-homing.


Daily Worklist/Checklist 8.2.7 Daily Worklist/Checklist.



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1.8 Sales

1.8.1 Retail OutletsStandard

VPDNBA members can sell to pet stores under the following conditions:

• Pet stores must comply with the animal welfare codes of practice in their respective States or Territories.

• Pet stores must belong to an association which ensures that members act responsibly in the sale of pet animals.Pet stores must accept the post-sale obligations required of members of the VPDNBA

• and outlined in items 1.8.2 to 1.8.5 which govern cooling off periods, responsibility for ensuring no illness at the time of sale, appropriate advice to be given on feeding and management, warranties and re-homing.

• Pet stores should have a relationship with a veterinary practice and should sell puppies with a de-sexing information supplied.

Why you should do itMany breeders within and outside the VPDNBA oppose the sale of puppies through pet stores however VPDNBA policy is that sales through stores are acceptable if the store behaves as a responsible reseller.

Breeders generally sell their puppies to pet stores for less money than if selling them directly to new owners. By doing this the VPDNBA acknowledgethey are effectively transferring the duty of care after sale of their puppy, which is then transferred to the store owner.

Pet stores must refraim from irresponsible selling practices. If they do not clearly recognise responsible selling practices and adopt transparent policies for the reselling of puppies then sales to those store by VPDNBA members will not be acceptable. It is in the interest of VPDNBA pet breeders that pet stores recognise their responsibilities.

Things to do & how to check it has been doneOnly sell to pet stores that are members of the PIAA or are on the list of stores approved by the VPDNBA and listed on the VPDNBA website as Associate members.


Animal Welfare Code of Practice – Animals in Pet Shops (NSW DPI) section

10. Animal Welfare Code of Practice – Animals in Pet Shops.

Pet store checklist TO BE DEVELOPED.



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1.8 Sales

1.8.2 Private Sales – Cooling Off PeriodStandard

Ancillary Members shall offer a “cooling off” period of three days after private sale of a puppy during which time the pup can be returned and the purchase price refunded. This excludes any non-refundable deposit or transport expenses paid.


Impulse purchases of puppies are strongly discouraged. They can lead to unhappy owners and damage to your reputation as a breeder. Furthermore all prospective owners should go through a vetting process and visit their new puppy at least twice prior to the finalization of the sale.

Purchasing a puppy is an emotional decision and sometimes, even after long consideration, people may find that the decision was a wrong one. Allergies to the pup may become apparent, family dynamics may not be functional. For whatever reason it is better to take back a young puppy than have it inappropriately homed.

Breeding great family pets is not hard because most people love their dog but your reputation as a breeder will depend on how you handle situations where things may go wrong.


Ring the new owner soon after the puppy arrives a its new home to ensure that all is well, that the new owners clearly understand their instructions on puppy management and that they and the puppy are happy. This will do a great deal to reduce any risk of owners being unhappy with their pup.




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1.8 Sales

1.8.3 Re-homing PolicyStandard

Ancillary and Associate members shall undertake to help re-home and if necessary take back and re-home any dog they have bred should it become homeless for any reason at any stage in the animal’s life.

Should a dog that has been sold by a Associate member who is a registered retail outlet be advised a dog that they have sold requires re-homing the VPDNBA will assume the full responsibility of the re-homing for the dog.


The ultimate test of “responsibility” as a dog breeder is that you accept that you have a duty of care for the dogs you breed throughout their entire life.

If you breed good dogs and take care that their new owner is appropriate and understands how to look after their new family pet then it will be very rare that you will need to re-home a dog.

Owners who are happy with their dog rarely re-home them. If they do it is usually for serious issues such as health, family breakup or moving interstate or overseas. In these situations it is reasonable to expect that you will help them out.

Behavioural or health problems can also be a reason for re-homing. If owners ignore your advice on management then you may not be responsible for the problem, however it will be in the best interest of the dog in such situations if it is re-homed with someone who will better understand its needs.

Careless owners create bad dogs and bad dogs are bad for your reputation as a breeder. Your reputation will be protected if you are prepared to take back your dogs.


You should have appropriate facilities for holding returned dogs while they are waiting re-homing.

Make sure that your new owners are aware of the VPDNBA re-homing policy.

Be aware that you may be asked to explain a breach of ethics if an owner complains to the Executive Management that you were not prepared to accept this responsibility.


VPDNBA “adult dogs for re-homing” page where dogs can be posted.



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1.8 Sales

1.8.4 Private Sales – Pre-existing Health ProblemsStandard

Members shall not sell puppies with pre-existing health problems unless under veterinary supervision. They willl be responsible for all veterinary expenses, up to the purchase date of the puppy and fully acknowledge the conditions present at the time of sale of the puppy.

Why you should do itYour obligation as a responsible breeder is to produce healthy puppies. Even simple problems like worms, ear mites or fleas can incur considerable veterinary bills for new owners. If you take care that your animals are healthy this obligation will be greatly diminished VPDNBA

.


Go through a checklist of procedures before the puppy leaves to ensure that all common health problems have been effectively dealt with. Check the puppy physically. Your veterinary vaccination certificate will demonstrate that the puppy has been checked by a health professional but check to your own satisfaction as well.


Puppy Departure Checklist downloadable from the website.


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1.8 Sales

1.8.5 Information for New OwnersStandard

Ancillary members shall provide new owners with information regarding feeding, veterinary care and training of their puppies.


Many dog owners are novices and have never owned a pet before and so will need guidance and reassurance regarding feeding and vaccination recommendations.

Behaviour problems are the most important cause of dissatisfaction which may lead to a failure of the relationship between the pup and its new family. Owners must understand the basic behavioural needs of their pup and how to train it to be a happy and congenial family member.

As well as providing written information on how to manage the puppy it is wise to recommend a “puppy preschool” for new pups.

If an owner declines to follow your advice then your responsibility for behavioural problems is diminished.


Provide a written puppy care manual with every puppy sold.


VPDNBA puppy manual can be downloaded from the website.



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1.9 Warranties

1.9.1 WarrantiesStandard

Ancillary and Associate members should provide written warranties outlining if and when refunds will be offered. If members do offer refunds they will not necessarily require the return of the dog for these refunds to be paid.

Members should be aware of genetic conditions likely to occur in the dogs they breed and must advise whether they will offer refunds should these diseases occur.


A responsible breeder accepts that they have a responsibility for the lifetime of the animals they breed.

Genetic conditions are common in some purebred dogs and can also occur in crossbreds, particularly if the diseases are prevalent in both breeds.

Many diseases can be screened for with a simple DNA test and breeders may choose to offer refunds if these diseases occur in the dogs they sell.

Your reputation as a breeder will depend on how you handle situations where things go wrong.

If you have a clear arrangement in advance then it will reduce the risk of dissatisfaction occurring if a dog you breed develops a problem.

Lifetime warranties which require the return of the dog are not condoned by the VPDNBA. In such cases that breeder does not want the dog back and is using that condition as a disincentive to dog owners to claim any refund.


Provide a written warranty or terms of sale or have your warranty clearly identified on your website.


VPDNBA sample warranty downloadable from the website.

Link on VPDNBA website to the University of Sydney LIDA website which lists the genetic diseases identified in purebred dogs.



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1.10 Desexing

1.10.1 Breeding DogsStandardVPDNBA recommends that breeding bitches be de-sexed when they reach retirement unless they are sold to other VPDNBA members before the age of 8 years.

Why you should do itTo prevent overuse and exhaustion of breeding bitches the VPDNBA recommends that breeding dogs be retired by 8 years of age or after their seventh litter, unless breeders have the bitch examined by and have a letter from a veterinarian.

If bitches are not de-sexed on retirement then they may become pregnant accidentally and therefore be in breach of VPDNBA regulations.

If mature bitches are not de-sexed and not breeding they are likely to develop uterine infections or mammary cancer as they get older.

If entire bitches are re-homed with breeders outside the VPDNBAthere is no guarantee that they will not be bred into old age.


Record retirement details on the website when your bitch is retired.


Website data records of all breeding dogs.



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1.10 Desexing

1.10.2 PuppiesStandardIt is a policy of the VPDNBA that pet dog owners should consider de-sexing their puppy in consultation with their Veterinarian. To achieve this breeders are encouraged to investigate the earliest opportunity for the de-sexing of their pups.

If pups are sold privately, and are not de-sexed, they should be sold with a firm focus placed on the buyer to seek the immediate guidance of their Veterinarian.

If pups are sold to a retail outlet the store should encourage and promote de-sexing and should provide de-sexing vouchers for a co-operating veterinary practice.


De-sexed male dogs are less likely to develop aggressive behavioural problems, to wander or to develop prostate problems.

De-sexed female dogs will not come on heat, have unplanned pregnancies or develop uterine infections and will be unlikely to develop breast cancer.

If entire female dogs are sold to people who are not registered breeders with the VPDNBA there are no guarantees that they will not be used as breeding bitches by people with no code of ethics to protect the dog, their puppies or future puppy owners.

De-sexing vouchers present extra paperwork and some planning but the cost should be added to the price of the puppy prior to sale and so should add no extra expense for the breeder.


Provide a de-sexing voucher with every puppy sold.

Only sell pups to retail outlets which have a policy of providing de-sexing vouchers.


Downloadable de-sexing voucher.

Database of stores complying with VPDNBA regulations.



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1.11 Housing

1.11.1 Breeding HusbandryStandard

Dogs should be in a communal enclosure or “run” in balanced social groups of no more than 4 bitches per run for most of their lives.

A house or a back yard could be an appropriate “run” for a breeder with no more than 4 bitches, or runs may be built specifically for the purpose.

Holding pens are required for mating and whelping and some breeders may pen their dogs individually or in pairs at night.

Some breeders may have space limitations and may not be able to run their dogs in social groups as described and will have a single exercise run with dogs penned for long periods of time. In this situation dogs should be penned in pairs and should have at least an hour each day in the exercise run with the opportunity to interact with other dogs.

Dogs should only be individually penned for mating and whelping.

Cages should only be used for transporting animals or for holding them for specific purposes and for short periods.


Dogs are social animals and if confined individually are likely to develop abnormal behaviours such as pacing, foot licking, chewing, self-mutilation, excessive barking or inappropriate aggression or timidity.

Dogs in feral packs usually live in loose groups of 2-6 animals with little inter- dog aggression. Given adequate space and food so that competition is minimal, small social groups or packs are a natural and non-stressful way to house a number of dogs.

Given that enclosures limit a dog’s ability to escape if a pack attack occurs, more than 4 dogs in an enclosure will increase the risk of inter-dog aggression leading to serious injury.

Dogs can have inter-dog “personality” problems which can lead to bullying and stress.

Once social relationships are established it can be stressful and cause outbreaks of bullying if groups are not kept stable.


Plan your dog runs to accommodate groups of 4 bitches.

Familiarise yourself with the subtle signs of inter-dog aggression and dominance behaviour.



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1.11 Housing

Observe your dogs’ behaviour closely so that they can be grouped to minimise stress and bullying.

After bitches have had puppies return them to their familiar social group.



43

1.11 Housing

1.11.2 Outside RunsStandard

Runs should be adequately sized for the breed to allow free running exercise and should have safe “bolt holes”(appropriate sized concrete pipes are ideal) to minimise the risk of serious injury should fighting occur. They should have at least 10% shade (ideally from trees), at least one draught-proof kennel large enough to shelter all dogs and clean drinking water. The run should be designed to facilitate the regular removal of faeces and runs should allow views beyond the enclosure. In very hot climates water troughs should be provided for cooling.

Grass should be kept mowed.


High solid-walled enclosures prevent dogs from observing their surrounding environment. In such enclosures dogs are more reactive. The risk of inter-dog aggression and social stress is increased when dogs have no other distractions.

Even heavy coated dogs can comfortably withstand summer heat if they have access to water to lie in. A water trough also provides environmental enrichment in the summer months

It is difficult to maintain even grass cover in a communal run because dogs enjoy digging and dry sunlit ground does not support disease-causing organisms so watering grass is not advisable however grass seeds can present health problems and so long grass should be mowed regularly.


Communal runs need to be large. As a guide a 20 x 40 metre run would be suitable for 4 large dogs. 10 x 30 metres would be suitable for 4 medium sized dogs and 10 x 20 metres would accommodate 4 miniature dogs. Toy dogs need relatively small spaces, (5m x 5m) but some small dogs learn to climb even a high fence and may need an internal overhang to prevent this.

Runs can be made from conventional fencing material, (steel strainer posts, star pickets and 1.1m heavy duty rabbit netting) with ‘foot netting’ flat on the ground attached to a bottom wire to prevent digging under the fence.

Dogs can be trained not to climb over these fences by running an insulated electric stock wire above the netting as is used in horse paddocks. This wire is for training purposes only and dogs should never be left unsupervised while the wire is electrified. If state codes of practice prohibit using stock wire then the run will need to have higher fences using less conventional fencing materials.



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1.11 Housing

Fences should be well maintained. Laneways between runs with shrubs planted to provide a partial visual barrier will prevent barrier aggression between adjacent groups of dogs and minimise the pressure on the dividing fences.

Grass should be mowed regularly when grass seeds present a problem.


Daily checklist – 8.2.7.



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1.11 Housing

1.11.3 Holding PensStandard

Pens should be north facing and appropriately sized to accommodate two dogs.

They should have shade, draught proof shelter and water, insulated or raised beds for each dog and floors which can be disinfected.

Walls should be mesh or bars to the north and should have impervious dividing walls to at least one metre high between pens.

Dogs should only be individually penned for mating, whelping or feeding.

Cages should only be used for transporting animals or for holding them for specific purposes and for short periods.

Faeces should be collected at least once daily from pens.


Moisture and cold increase the difficulty in disinfection of kennels. North facing pens can be shaded in summer and stay warm and dry in winter. South facing pens are cold and uncomfortable and remain damp in winter making hygiene difficult.

A mesh or barred northern face allows sun to penetrate and gives dogs a view of their environment.

Dogs are social animals and if confined individually are likely to develop abnormal behaviours such as pacing, foot licking, chewing, self-mutilation, excessive barking, inappropriate aggression or timidity. More than two dogs in a confined space can lead to aggression over limited resources.

If dogs are penned at night in pairs then each dog can be examined as they are moved from pen to run and back each day.

An impermeable barrier between pens prevents barrier aggression and limits the spread of airborne infection.

Poor hygiene will increase the risk of infectious diseases.


Pens should have concrete floors.

Weld mesh comes in various sizes and is more resistant to damage from chewing than chain mesh.

Divisions between pens should be solid to above the eye height of the dogs when standing on their hind legs.



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1.11 Housing

The length of the pen should be about twice its width with 4 m2 of floor area for small dogs, 6 m2 for medium sized, 8 m2 for big dogs and 10 m2 for giant breeds


Daily checklist – 8.2.7 Daily

Worklist/Checklist. Plans for facility – 1.12.5

Design.

Matrix for dog size vs Pen size TO BE DEVELOPED.

8.2.11 Matrix dog size vs. pen size.



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1.11 Housing

1.11.4 Whelping AreaStandard

Whelping pens should have the same dimensions and properties as holding pens and can be interchangeable

The whelping box should be an appropriate size for the bitch and should have heating for the cooler months. Underfloor heating is ideal but a heat lamp can be effective.

In summer a wooden whelping frame should be adequate and cooling may be necessary.

Boxes for larger dogs should have an internal crush rail to prevent puppies being squashed.

Bedding material should be easily cleaned or disposable and as soon as the pups eyes are open should be changed daily to prevent soiling.

Faeces should be removed from pens at least daily.


Newborn puppies have very limited ability to control their body heat and so should be kept at a temperature of 37-38° C. The most effective heating is under a floor tile or concrete in a section of the box – the pup will move about and select the most comfortable heat. This can also be achieved with a heat lamp shining on half the whelping box.

In very hot weather pups should be able to lie on exposed concrete in the whelping box/frame.

In the first two weeks the bitch will keep her pups very clean. If the whelping box is allowed to get dirty once the pups are moving about, pups may be hard to toilet train when they are in their new homes.

Puppies reared in dirty pens may become “poo eaters” and this habit can lead to pups growing poorly and being rejected by their new owners. Also increases risk of intestinal parasites.


Whelping box dimensions vary but the following are a guide to the appropriate size:

Toy breed 65cm x 85cm x 30cm

Small breed 90cm x 90cm x 30cm

Medium breed 90cm x 120cm x 40cm

Large breed 120cm x 120cm x 40cm



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1.11 Housing

Shredded newspaper is a popular bedding material, straw is hard to clean and can penetrate eyes. Washable specially-designed dry bedding which means breeders will require a washing machine is ideal for older pups .


Daily checklist – 8.2.7 Daily

Worklist/Checklist. Plans for facility – 1.12.5

Design.

Matrix for dog size vs Pen size TO BE DEVELOPED8.2.11 Matrix dog size vs. pen size.



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1.11 Housing

1.11.5 LaundryStandard

A dedicated washing machine will be necessary for washing, whelping bedding, puppy bedding, towels and blankets.


Although shredded newspaper and straw or sawdust can be used as bedding material specially-designed washable “Drybed” bedding is more suitable for pups once they are walking about.

A small breeder could use their own washing machine but this is unlikely to be sustainable for more than just a backyard operation.

Hygiene in puppies is essential – they must be warm, dry and not contaminated with faeces to prevent disease and to ensure that they grow into clean pets that will adapt well to family living.





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1.12 Inventory

1.12.1 InventoryEquipment• Scales for puppies – fine electronic scales +/- 5gms to 5kg• Washing machine• Fridge/freezer for storing bones and medication• Pressure washer• Sealed containers to store dog food in• Food containers• Water containers – small ones for runs, possibly troughs for pens –

must not be able to be tipped over• Clippers – if keeping long haired dogs• Whelping boxes• Underfloor heating mats or incandescent light/heating light (eg piglet

lights)

Food• Fish oil• Linseed oil• Dog food• Puppy food• Cleaning products• Disinfectant that is bacteriocidal and viracidal

Medications• Worming tablets• “Vytrate” or similar electrolyte• Ear drops/ear cleaner• Shampoo• “Scourban” (prescription only) or “Peptosyl”• Ear mite prevention• Flea control• Stationery

Kennel Diary• Breeding records• Litter records• Individual dog health record• Annual breeding summary sheet• Bitch breeding summary sheet• Dog breeding summary sheet• Joining sheet• Management timetable and checklist• Pup health record sheet• Puppy management timetable – calculation sheet• Local vet listing• Pet store checklist• Vaccination records• Body score sheet• Appropriate state welfare code of practice



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1.13 Selection of Breeding Stock

1.13.1 Breeding ObjectivesStandardSound temperament and health must be the primary breeding objectives of all VPDNBA breeders and breeders must fully and accurately describe the characteristics of the puppies they sell.


Pound studies have shown that the majority of the pound dog population are voluntarily surrendered young dogs. These dogs have behaviour problems or are inappropriate in size or temperament for their owners’ situation.

A significant proportion of dogs are surrendered to pounds because chronic ill health makes them unaffordable for their owners.

There is little or no real evidence that dogs are surrendered to pounds because of their appearance.

There are several purebred dog breeds that carry a range of genetic disorders, which can be breed- specific. Many dogs have physical characteristics, some inherent in the respective breed standards of some purebred dogs, which predispose them to particular health problems.

There is some research into behavioural predictors of puppy temperament and it has shown that the temperament of parent dogs is one of the best indicators of a puppy’s temperament.


Dogs that are, for any reason, temperamentally unsuited to living harmoniously in a group with other dogs or with a family should not be bred from. This includes:

• dogs which are noticeably more nervous or aggressive than others in the kennel;

• dogs which are obviously more excitable than others in the kennel – unless this attribute is appropriate for their purpose – for example perhaps as working sheep dogs.

Breeders should have knowledge of the genetic diseases likely to affect their breed or breeds and should have a breeding program aimed to minimise the expression of these diseases in their puppies. This can be achieved by a combination of careful breed selection and genetic screening.

Breeders should be aware of the physical problems related to conformation that affect their breed or breeds and should have a breeding program aimed to minimise the expression of these problems in their puppies.



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Breeders should be able to advise potential owners regarding the suitability of the dogs they breed. This advice should include:

• how big they are expected to grow;

• what activity levels to expect;

• how trainable they are likely to be;

• how much hair they are likely to shed;

• whether they are likely to have strong instinctive behaviour such as hunting or herding;

• any other issue of relevance to the suitability of the pup for the situation in which it will be living.

They must provide the purchaser of the puppy with this information in writing – either as a hard copy or on a website


Link to list of genetic disorders affecting particular dog breeds http://www.vetsci.usyd.edu.au/lida/ – available on AAPDB website.

Link to description of purebred dogs in Australia – size, weight, activity levels, temperament and links to breeders. http://www.pedigreebreeder.com.au/breeds/default.asp?b=69&p=e&pp – available on AAPBD website.

VPDNBA online database and recording system.



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1.13.2 Breeding – “In House Pedigrees” and RecordingStandard

Breeding records and “in house pedigrees” should be kept and inbreeding avoided.

The only exception to this would be for members involved in new breed development, in which case breeders will abide by AAPDB guidelines developed with the advice of geneticists to govern the degree of inbreeding regarded as acceptable.

Breeders of purebred dogs should screen for common genetic diseases of their breed(s) and any single gene disorders should be recorded on the VPDNBA database in order to avoid affected matings.


Inbreeding has been demonstrated to cause depression of fertility and general health in all animal species in which it has been studied.

Sexual reproduction aims to “shuffle” genes every generation to maximise genetic diversity. Animal species have evolved complex behavioural mechanisms designed to minimise or avoid inbreeding.

Inbreeding has been an important tool in animal breed development worldwide and can be used effectively to fix breed characteristics without seriously damaging animal health as long as the breeder has a great deal of genetic information available, has a large number of animals to work with, and is prepared to cull poor performing progeny. This may not be compatible with individual animal welfare and so is not acceptable to AAPDB standards.

Inbreeding can only be avoided if breeding records are kept.

Most registered purebred dogs within a breed are all closely related because breeds have been developed from a small number of “foundation” dogs and because popular sires and blood lines dominate the gene pool. Outside of the stud purebred dog gene pool there is more diversity but without knowledge of pedigrees it is possible for breeders to inbreed unintentionally.

All animals carry some recessive genetic disorders so the elimination of “bad” genes is difficult to impossible however identification of carrier animals for common genetic disorders can be used to prevent matings which can lead to affected progeny.


Wherever possible breeders should use animals with three generations of known pedigree information.

Pedigree information must be kept for all animals bred and retained for breeding.



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Screening information should be recorded with the animal’s pedigree.

Pups bred as pets should have no common maternal and paternal ancestors for at least three generations.

Mixed breed dogs may be bred but breeders should only use “designer” names if they are using a recognised crossbreeding system and owners should be advised that puppies may not be predictable in type.

Animals of a particular breed but of unknown pedigree can be used to breed purebred dogs as pets, if the breeder can demonstrate a sound rationale, based on issues relating to health, temperament, or genetic diversification for doing so.


VPDNBA Online database and recording system.

VPDNBA breeding records downloadable from the website.

VPDNBA Glossary of breeding terms.



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1.13.3 Breeding – Crossbreeding SystemsStandard

Breeders producing crossbred puppies should have clear breeding strategies and use recognised crossbreeding principles aimed at producing predictable and uniform puppies.

The progeny of these crosses should be sold as pets preferably to be de-sexed, and should not be bred from unless the breeder is part of a breed development program and the dogs and breeder are VPDNBA members.

Breeders may give “designer dog” names to their puppies if they are following a recognised crossbreeding system. They must also clearly describe their puppies in terms of the breeds involved and how they are combined.

Breeders of crossbred dogs should screen for common genetic diseases which occur in each parent breed and any single gene disorders should be recorded on the VPDNBA database.

Recessive genetic disorders should be recorded on the VPDNBA database.


Inbreeding has been demonstrated to cause depression of fertility and general health in all animal species in which it has been studied.

Crossbreeding in production animals is a widespread practice used to produce animals which are superior in certain characteristics to the parent breeds.

Crossbreeding can be used to correct conformational problems and to minimise the risk of single gene defects in parent breeds.

All animals carry some recessive genetic disorders so elimination of “bad” genes is difficult and risks further loss of gene pool diversity. Identification of carrier animals for common genetic disorders can be used to prevent matings that will lead to affected progeny.

Puppies bred as pets should be reliably predictable and consistent in type and temperament.

Dogs which are the product of a first cross, backcross or a three breed cross will be predictable and consistent in type.


Cross-breeders should familiarise themselves with the common genetic diseases affecting the parent breeds and, where possible, should be prepared to test for genetic diseases which are common to both breeds.

Animals of a particular breed but of unknown parentage can be used in crossbreeding programs where the risk of inbreeding does not occur.



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Predictable and consistent puppies can be bred by breeding crossbred dogs bred as first cross, backcross or three breed cross (see Glossary below).

Close inbreeding should be avoided and pups bred as pets should have no common maternal and paternal ancestors for at least three generations.Pedigree information must be kept for all animals retained for breeding. Screening information should be recorded with the animal’s pedigree.


VPDNBA Online database and recording system.

VPDNBA breeding records downloadable from the website. Glossary of breeding terms.



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1.13.4 Glossary of Breeding TermsBackcross. A backcross is an animal produced by crossing a first cross female back to an unrelated member of one of the parent breeds producing an animal which is 3/4 one breed and 1/4 the other. The progeny are uniform and will be intermediate in characteristics between the F1 and the backcrossed parent breed.

Complementarity. Complementarity (in traditional breeding terms the way bloodlines “nick”) is a term which describes the way in which the strengths of one breed can complement the strengths or mask the weaknesses of a second breed, producing an offspring which performs overall better for a particular purpose than either parent breed. Complementary breeds are breeds which when combined “even out” each other’s defects or enhance each other’s benefits.

Congenital. Present at birth. A congenital condition may also be genetic or it may be caused by factors affecting the developing foetus in the mother’s uterus.

Crossbreeding. This refers to the deliberate breeding of crosses between two breeds of animal. Crossbreeding systems use heterosis or hybrid vigour and complementarity between breeds to produce a “first cross” progeny which combines the attributes of two or sometimes three breeds in a way that provides an improvement in performance over the parental breeds.

Designer dogs. The term “designer dog” was introduced to Australia by TV celebrity Don Burke in the mid 1990s to describe deliberately bred crossbred dogs produced in an attempt to combine the advantages and minimise the disadvantages of different breeds. Usually such dogs are given names, such as the Labradoodle named by a Guide Dog breeder in Victoria, which suggest their breeding. The term and is now used most often as a disparaging label to all crossbred dogs applied by people opposed to crossbreeding. The AAPDB will attempt to standardise names used for crossbred dogs bred as pets.

F1 or first cross. A first cross is an animal produced by crossing two purebreds producing a dog that is ½ one breed and ½ a second breed. Progeny are relatively uniform and intermediate in characteristics to the parent breeds

F2 or second cross. An F2 or second cross is a cross between two F1 animals. These animals have a random assortment of genes from both parent breeds and will be extremely variable in type ranging from resembling either parent breed to resembling the F1 parents. Because puppies are not predictable this is not an appropriate cross for crossbreeding programs for pets and these crosses should only be performed occasionally for the purposes of breed development.

Gene. Unit of inheritance which codes for a particular protein which may be structural, or functional. Each animal carries two copies of each gene (except for sex-linked genes in males), one derived from each parent.



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Gene – Heterozygous. Having different copies of a particular gene at the same point on both chromosomes.

Gene – Homozygous. Having identical copies of a particular gene at the same point on both chromosomes.

Gene – Dominant. A gene is dominant if only one copy of the gene is needed for the gene to be expressed (eg black coat colour).

Gene – Recessive. A gene is recessive if two copies of the gene are required for the gene to be expressed (eg gold coat colour).

Gene – Sex-linked. A gene carried on the X chromosome and therefore having only one copy in male dogs.

Heterosis or “Hybrid vigour”. This is the term used to describe the improvement in fertility and general health of first cross animals and plants compared with their parent bloodlines. The more inbred the parent lines the greater will be the effect of heterosis. Hybrid vigour is produced when recessive genes are hidden by an increase in the number of heterozygous genes an animal carries – geneticists call this heterosis. In practical terms inbred dogs are harder to get pregnant than crossbred dogs, they are more likely to have miscarriages and have fewer puppies than comparably sized crossbreds.Inbreeding depresses general health or “vigour”. Inbred puppies are more likely than crossbred puppies to have congenital defects (eg hernias and “hare lip”), ‘fade’ and die after birth.

Inbreeding. Inbreeding is the practice of mating animals more closely related than the average of the population. In dog breeding this term is often only applied to matings between very closely related animals such as parent and offspring or siblings. Inbreeding increases the number of homozygous genes an animal will carry.

Line breeding. Line breeding is a form of inbreeding in which related animals are deliberately mated in order to “fix” particular characteristics – to breed pups resembling as closely as possible the particular appearance or behaviour of one dog or dog family. Line breeding increases the number of homozygous genes an animal will carry.

Mixed breed. Mixed breed animals are those produced by random mating. While they can be loyal and reliable pets the expected physical characteristics of their progeny cannot be predicted and this makes them inappropriate animals to be used in a breeding program aiming to produce predictable pets.

Outcrossing. This refers to the breeding of two unrelated animals within the same breed. This is a technique used by purebred dog breeders to introduce genetic diversity or correct perceived defects in the “bloodlines” of the animals they breed. Outcrossed animals can benefit from heterosis and complementarity.



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Purebred. Purebred animals or plants are varieties of a species produced by selective breeding so that when two are crossed they “breed true” to a particular type. Purebred dogs may be registered with a breed society in which case they are stud or registered purebreds with recorded pedigrees. In livestock breeding an animal that is 15/16th of one breed can be registered as a purebred.

Three breed cross. A three breed cross is produced by crossing a first cross female to a third breed sire. These animals are ¼ one breed, ¼ a second breed and ½ a third breed. The progeny are uniform and will be intermediate in characteristics between the F1 parent and the third breed.



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1.14 Emergency Management Plan

1.14.1 Emergency Plan for DogsStandard

Each facility will need to have a documented emergency evacuation plan in place. This document must be kept on the premises and each staff member should know where it is located and be familiar with the plan.


To ensure that you and your staff all know what needs to be done in the event of a disaster.


Run through a mock emergency evacuation at least once every 6 months to ensure familiarity with the plan.

Ensure each new staff member reads over the plan and understands the emergency evacuation plan and their specific role in the event of an emergency evacuation.


Planning-for-emergencies-guide-for-animal-holding-establishments.



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1.15 Pest Control

1.15.1 Pest ControlStandard

The kennel should have a program to control rodents, fleas, flies and mosquitoes.


Rodents carry diseases including leptospirosis, which can kill dogs. Flies can carry infectious diseases and can cause eye and ear problems. Mosquitoes can carry heartworm and cause skin irritations.


Keep food in rodent-proof containers.

Use traps rather than poison if rodents are present.

Dispose of feaces in a manner which prevents flies from breeding and meets council regulations where appropriate.

Do not have open drains or areas of stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.




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2. Membership

2.1.1 BenefitsThe benefits of membership of the VPDNBA are numerous:

• Regulations pertaining to animal breeding are increasing and being a member of a recognised breeding organisation will soon be essential. Already some zoning rules require this before dog breeding facilities are approved.

• Membership will identify members as responsible dog owners and breeders and will confer an advantage allowing them to charge appropriately for their pups.

• Members will be able to market their pups directly or to approved pet stores through the website.

• Members will receive promotional packs, including food samples, health care products and information on health and training for new owners, for each puppy they breed.

• Members will have access to an online recording system which will help them to meet any obligatory statutory regulations (for example, in NSW comprehensive records are obligatory) and also help in management timetables and recording and printing pedigrees.

• Members will be able to communicate with other breeders in a members’- only forum where breeding issues can be discussed openly.

• Members will be able to maintain contact with their owners through the owners’ database.

• Members will have access to a group buying scheme in order to access discount products.

• Members will have access to breeding stock and to information about health and genetic issues.

Responsibilities

You will comply with these Member Standards and acknowledge that ongoing membership is subject to annual external audit.

You will pay all member fees and maintain adequate stocks of required foods/additives/treatments and consumables.



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2. Membership

2.1.2 Privacy ActThe Victorian Pet Dog and Novice Breeders Association is required to comply with the Privacy Act 1988 and the National Privacy Principles in collecting, using, disclosing and disposing of a member’s personal information.

Personal information is any information that can be used to identify a person. The types of information the Association collects includes members’ names, addresses and other contact details and breeding information.

The purposes for which the Association collects such information are as follows:

• to facilitate communication between members;

• to communicate with members including the distribution of information;

• for administrative purposes, including obtaining breeding records, completing registrations and sales and the like;

• maintaining the Association’s breeding records and certificates;

• complying with the Association’s legal obligations.

By completing and returning to the Association any request by the Association for information relating to the member, a member will be considered to have consented to the collection of the information and to disclosure of the information for the purposes outlined above. If members do not consent to such disclosure, formal notification in writing should be given to the Association. In this event, the Association will only use the member’s personal information for the purpose of contacting the member, and no further information will be disclosed.

The Association will not disclose a member’s personal information for any other purpose without the member’s specific written consent.

In accordance with the National Privacy Principles, the Association will endeavour to ensure that:

• Personal information is kept secure.

• Personal information will be accurately maintained. Members should contact the Association to update any personal information that the Association holds in relation to them.

• Personal information will be destroyed when it is no longer required for the purpose for which it was collected.

• Members may gain access to their personal information held by the Association and may correct it if necessary.



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2. Membership

2.1.3 AccreditationAccreditation requires that an Ancillary or Associate member meets a set of standards whereby we can guarantee a minimum standard of safety and care of all dogs registered with the VPDNBA.

A fully accredited Ancillary or Associate member will:be required to meet the husbandry standards set out in the VPDNBA

manual;

Adopt the ethics of the VPDNBA;

Record the dogs they own and the puppies they breed on the VPDNBA website database.

How it works

To become an Ancillary or Associate member of the VPDNBA you must fill out the membership form on the website and pay $75 via our secure payment system. website and a copy of the VPDNBA manual which sets out the standards which must be met for full membership.

Six months after taking up Associate membership the Associate member will be advised by mail or email that inspection is due and they will be given three months to arrange an appropriate time with an inspector nominated by the VPDNBA Executive. The letter will include a self-assessment form which should be completed and returned before the inspection.

The VPDNBA Welfare Officer will conduct their inspection and provide a report to the VPDNBA Executive. Upon review of the report by the VPDNBA, you will be issued either with full accreditation or a list of areas that need improvement and a time frame (minimum three months) to comply with these changes.

After twelve months an Associate membership will lapse if the Associate does not take the next step to full membership.



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2. Membership

2.1.4 Associate MembersAn Associate Member is a member who has a breeding facility. That facility must be inspected by an approved VPDNBA accreditor upon a request for membership.

To become an Associate Member of the VPDNBA you must fill out the membership form on the website and pay $200 via our secure payment system.

On receipt of payment you will be sent a password to the members’ section of the website and a copy of the VPDNBA manual which sets out the standards which must be met for full membership and also contains extensive and valuable information on feeding, housing, breeding and management timetables and preventative health and should have value for even the most experienced breeder.

An Associate Member will have their contact details listed on our Associate Members list and will be able to participate in the members’ forum. They will have access to any discount products offered to members.

An Associate Member will have access to “puppy promotional packs”. They will be required to record their breeding dogs and will be able to access the breeding forms and records downloadable from the website.

An Associate Member will have 6 months to have their property accredited. This time frame may be extended once with approval by the Executive Manager for no more than six months upon payment of a further $150 fee. After this time if accreditation has not been undertaken the Associate Members application will lapse.

Fees – Associate Members

Joining fee – $200

Inspection fee

3-10 bitches = $15011 + bitches = $280

Changes to these fees may be decided by the board and will be advised on the VPDNBA website.

Full membershipFull membership will be available to breeders who have met the requirements set out in the VPDNBA manual after inspection by the VPDNBA Welfare Officer.



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2. Membership

Full members will have a full page public listing on the members list with contact details, photographs and a link to a private website if appropriate. They will also have all the benefits of full membership listed in 2.1.1.

Members will register their dogs and the puppies they breed on the VPDNBA database so that they can download pedigree forms and receive their puppy packs for each puppy.

Members will register the owners of each puppy sold on the VPDNBA database so that owners can be emailed and offered the opportunity to join the VPDNBA owners’ forum at no charge.

Annual membership fees will depend on the number of breeding bitches owned. Changes to these fees may be decided by the Board and will be advised on the VPDNBA website.

3-10 bitches = $150 11 + bitches = $450

Associate Members must be prepared for inspection annually to ensure they continue to meet all the required standards.



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2. Membership

2.1.5 MembersAn annual membership fee is due on the 1st of July, and is dependent upon the number of breeding bitches that you have at your facility.

3-10 bitches $15011+ bitches $450

Annual membership is approved at the discretion of the Association and is dependent upon:

• satisfactory performance in the previous year;

• compliance with any shortfalls that are identified;

• compliance with any complaints that are received.

Members will be required to have their property inspected every two years to ensure that they continue to meet all the required standards.



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2. Membership

2.1.6 Termination of MembershipAssociate Member’s membership will be terminated if that member does not undertake an inspection within 12 months, or if accreditation standards are not met within 12 months, of joining the VPDNBA.

If an Associate Member fails to meet accreditation standards within six months of failing the annual accreditation inspection then full membership will be terminated.

If the VPDNBA receives proven complaints indicating a breach of VPDNBA ethics, and the investigation finds that the complaint was justified, then the member will be given three months to correct the breach and will be required to pay for a full reaccreditation inspection. Full membership will be terminated if the breach is not corrected within three months and/or for any further breaches.

Full membership will be immediately terminated if a member is convicted of any animal cruelty offence.



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3. Registration of Dogs

3.1.1 Identification of DogsStandardMembers will identify all breeding dogs by microchip number and record these numbers on the VPDNBA database when joining.

All puppies must be microchipped prior to sale and these details will be recorded on the VPDNBA website.


Microchipping provides a unique identifier for all dogs and will prevent confusion arising regarding identification.

Microchipping complies with Victorian Codes of Practice for breeding dogs. In other states, microchipping of all dogs is either required or likely to be required in the future.





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3. Registration of Dogs

3.2.1 Litter RecordingStandardOnce puppies are three days old the litter should be recorded on the VPDNBA database.

All puppies are required to be microchipped and it is highly advisable for the VPDNBA to be registered as the third emergency contact on the microchip database.

When puppies are allocated to a new owner they should be individually recorded with their owner details on the VPDNBA dog database


Once a litter is recorded on the database you will be sent a puppy pack containing products, food and information for each puppy, which you can give to their new owner.

Once the puppy and its new owner are recorded you can download vaccination certificates, a covering letter and a list of the litter and new owners for a paper record if required.

Once an owner is recorded on the VPDNBA database they will receive information from the VPDNBA including their username and password to access the owners’ forum.



VPDNBA Online litter record.

VPDNBA Online dog database.

VPDNBA online owner database.



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4. Inspection of Facility

4.1.1 Physical Inspection.

Physical inspection of your property will only occur with your approval, and will only be conducted by a VPDNBA Welfare Officer in the company of a VPDNBA Protective Officer. This two person team will be responsible for the full inspection of the property and/or business in order for you to obtain and/or keep full membership.

All Associate members will require an annual inspection to remain a member of the VPDNBA.

Ancillary members will be given the opportunity to have a virtual inspection if it is required. This can be done using uploading technology and by following the requirements available on the Website.

In the event of a complaint made against any member, whether Associate or Ancillary that member will not have an automatic right of refusal for an inspection without having their membership suspended as a result.

However as is the right of any person in Victoria to decline to have their property inspected no unauthorized entry would be undertaken. If this is the case, you are required to notify the Executive Manager in writing with your reasons otherwise your suspension will become permanent.



Inspection of Facility

5. Transfers

5.1.1 Transfer of Dog or a Dog Between MembersOne of the benefits of being a member of the VPDNBA is that you will have access to a larger range of breeding dogs.

Breeders should only sell entire dogs for breeding to other VPDNBA members or to members of other breeder organisations which meet the ethical standards of the VPDNBA.



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6. Communication

6.1.1 Communication with VPDNBA6.1.2You can contact the VPDNBA via email at xxxxxxxxxxxxx, or via mail at PO Box xxxxxxxxxxxx.

If you are reporting a complaint or incident, please ensure that you follow up any phone call with written documentation.



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6. Communication

6.1.3 Communication with MembersCommunication with other VPDNBA members can occur via the member’s only web-based forum.



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6. Communication

6.1.4 Communication with CouncilsYou will need to contact your local council regarding regulations that you need to abide by. Please do not rely on word of mouth; each council is different.

Some questions you will need to consider include:

• waste disposal;

• noise regulations;

• max number of dogs allowed.



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6. Communication

6.1.5 Communication with MediaIf you are approached by the media in any way, please refer them to our Executive Manager whose contact details will be available on the website.

VPDNBA members are not entitled to express opinions for and on behalf of the VPDNBA, but may express their own opinions.



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6. Communication

6.1.6 Communication with the PublicVPDNBA members are not entitled to express opinions for and on behalf of the VPDNBA, but may express their own opinions.



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7. Human Resources

7.1.1 TrainingIt is intended that training courses will be made available on the following:

• microchipping;

• animal husbandry;

• basic infection control.

When this occurs members will be notified by email and through the website.



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7. Human Resources

7.1.2 Team ProfileStandard

Any person you employ to assist on your property should at least have the following attributes:

• a commitment to animal welfare;

• an understanding of basic infection control processes;

• the ability to work consistently without supervision;

• the interest and observational skills sufficient to note changes in the behaviour of animals. in order to be able to recognise potential health and social problems;

• a preparedness to learn new skills and acquire more knowledge.


Your staff must have a commitment to the welfare of your dogs, the ability to understand what constitutes good animal husbandry and the observational skills necessary to observe subtle changes in behaviour which suggest that problems may be arising.


Conduct an initial interview and ask for a resume.

Conduct at least two reference checks.


Interview questions

Personnel information form

Ref check questions



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8.1 Human Resources

8.1.1 Interview QuestionsTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

84

8.1 Human Resources

8.1.2 Reference Check VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities


Documentation

85

How would you describe the standard of their work?

They have applied for a volunteer position of at our facility. How would you describe their skill level in relation to this position?

How were they in terms of... accuracy and quality of their work?

punctuality & reliability?

following instructions?

using initiative?

working by themselves?

How did they relate to... customers?

co-workers?

their supervisor?

Would you re-employ them if you had the opportunity? If not, why not?

If the company refuses to provide reference check information

Some employers have a policy of refusing to give reference checks, and in other cases the employee has refused permission for the employer to provide this information.

However, most companies will verify that the person worked for the company and confirm the start and finish dates the candidate has stated on his/her application.

Many companies will also provide a Yes/No answer to the question: Would you re-employ them if you had the opportunity?

Name of Applicant:

Position Applying for:

Company Name: Date rang: / /

Spoke to:

Suggested questions

What was their position and what kind of work did they do when he/she was employed by you?

8.1 Human Resources

8.1.3 Personnel Record VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities


Documentation

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Do you have a current Drivers Licence? Y / N Licence No:

Do you have any current / existing injuries? Y / N

If yes, please detail:

I state that the above information is true and correct and not misleading.

Signed: Date: / /

Have you completed and attached:

Employment Agreement Yes / No

Tax File Declaration Yes / No

Superannuation application

Copy of relevant Certificates eg First Aid

Yes / No

Yes / No

First Name: Surname:

DOB: / / Sex: M / F

Address:

Town: P/Code:

State: Phone: (H) Mobile:

Next of Kin Name:

Relationship:

Phone: (H)

Mobile:

Bank

Details

Bank: Branch:

BSB:

8.2 Facility

8.2.1 Calculating RationsTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

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8.2 Facility

8.2.2 Condition Score

Body Condition Scoring Chart



Documentation

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2 = Thin

Ribs easily palpated and may be visible with no palpable fat. Tops of lumbar vertebrae visible. Pelvic bones less prominent. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck.

Modified from Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine Nutrition Support web site. http://vet.osu.edu/1851.htm

3 = Moderate

Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Abdomen tucked up when viewed from side.

4 = Stout

General fleshy appearance. Ribs palpable with difficulty. Noticeable fat deposits over lumbar spine and tail base. Abdominal tuck may be absent

5 = Obese

Large fat deposits over chest, spine and tail base. Waist and abdominal tuck absent. Fat deposits on neck and limbs. Abdomen distended.

1 = Emaciated

Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic bones and all body prominences evident from a distance. No discernible body fat. Obvious absence of muscle mass.

8.2 Facility

8.2.3 Guide to Nutritional ContentTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

89

8.2 Facility

8.2.4 Flea Treatment ProtocolTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

90

8.2 Facility

8.2.5 Vaccination RecordTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

91

8.2 Facility

8.2.6 Puppy BagsTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

92

8.2 Facility

8.2.7 Daily Worklist/ChecklistTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

93

8.2 Facility

8.2.8 Pet Store ChecklistTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

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8.2 Facility

8.2.9 Membership Application VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities


Documentation

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Mr/Mrs First Name Surname Signature Date

Name/s in which Breeding Prefix to be held:

Address of facility for Breeding Prefix:

Have you previously had a Breeding Prefix? Y / N

If yes, please state:

Breed/s of dog :

Selected names in order of preference ( 10 letters max) Please print clearly

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Please indicate the number of breeding bitches you have at your facility (please tick):

1 – 4 5 – 12 13+

You will be notified of your Breeding Prefix in 2-4 weeks, and once your payment has been processed. Please note that any discriminatory words, dog breeds, swear words or misleading words will not be considered. Your approved Breeding Prefix will be your userid for our website, and must appear on all your AAPDB documentation. There will be a fee for re-issuing documentation related to your Breeding Prefix.

Credit Card Details

Mastercard ¨ Visa ¨ Expiry: /

Card Number:

Signature of cardholder: Date: / /

VPDNBA Membership Application

8.2 Facility

8.2.9 Membership Application cont. VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities


Documentation

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Name Microchip No Sex Breed Pedigree Information if known

VPBNBA Membership ApplicationPlease complete the following information for each dog at your facility:1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

Please attach a separate page if more space is needed.

Facility

8.2.10 Re-homing FacilitiesTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

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8.2 Facility

8.2.11 Matrix Dog Size vs. Pen SizeTO BE DEVELOPED



Documentation

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8.3 Dogs

8.3.1 Individual Dog Health Record VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities


Documentation

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Sex: M / F DOB: / / Microchip No

Vaccination Status:

Date Problem Treatment Outcome Comments

Name: Breed:

8.3 Dogs

8.3.2 Annual Kennel Breeding Summary Sheet

VPDNBA Annual Kennel Breeding Summary Sheet

1st Day of Bitch Dog Date of No. of Pups No. lost CommentsStanding Heat Whelping

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Summary



Documentation

Total

Number whelped

Total number of puppies

Litter size per bitch joined

Number joined

Number lost

Average litter size

100

8.3 Dogs

8.3.3 Individual Bitch Breeding Summary Sheet

VPDNBA Individual Bitch Breeding Summary Sheet

Name:

Breed:



DocumentationSex: F DOB: / / Microchip No

Day 1 of Joined to Date No. of Pups Interoestrus Next heat CommentsStanding Heat whelped interval in days due

101

8.3 Dogs

8.3.4 Individual Dog Breeding Summary Sheet

VPDNBA Individual Dog Breeding Summary Sheet

Name:

Breed:



Documentation

Sex: M DOB: / / Microchip No

Date Joined to Semen No. joinings Date No. of pups Commentsquantity whelped

102

8.3 Dogs

8.3.5 Individual Illness Sheet


Dog Breeding Standards


Documentation

103


Date: / /

Symptons:

Diagnosis:

Veterinarian:

Date Treatment Comments

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

VPDNBA Individual Illness SheetName:

Breed:

8.3 Dogs

8.3.6 Individual Health Summary Sheet VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities


Documentation

104


S S

D D

D D

D

S

D

Vaccination Status:

S

D S

S S


Name:

Breed:

8.3 Dogs

8.3.7 Joining Sheet



Documentation

105

Day Date Vulval Swelling Vaginal DischargeBloody Red Watery

Watery StrawColoured

Behaviour MaleFlirting, Standing Comments yipping & tail toplaying one side

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Estimated joining date: Move to shed:

Pregnancy test date: Whelping due:

Bitch Name:

Dog/s Name/s:

8.3 Dogs

8.3.8 Litter Record

Dam:

Date of Birth: / / Sire:



Documentation

At Birth (0) 1 – 3 Days At 6 Weeks Comments OwnerSex Colo

urWt Wt Wt At 2 weeks Wt Tem

pHear t Rate

Hea rt Sound

Hyd rati on

Fat Cove r

Spot colour

M / F

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Microchip number

Gra ms

Cels ius

Beat s/min

NAD/**

NAD/de

NAD/ Thin

106

8.3 Dogs

8.3.9 Management Timetable and Checklist VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities

Bitch Name: Dog Name: Policies and Procedures

Breed:

Distinguishing feature/s: Documentation


Vaccination Status: 1st vaccination Date: / /

2nd vaccination Date: / /

Worming : 1st Date: / /

3rd Date: / / 2nd Date: / /

4th Date: / /

Baycox: 1st Date: / /

2nd Date: / /

No of Males: No of Females:


107

8.3 Dogs

8.3.10 Puppy Health Record VPDNBA Responsible Dog Ownership and Breeders Responsibilities

Bitch Name: Dog Name: Policies and Procedures

Breed:

Distinguishing feature/s: Documentation


Vaccination Status: 1st vaccination Date: / /

2nd vaccination Date: / /

Worming : 1st Date: / /

3rd Date: / / 2nd Date: / /

4th Date: / /

Baycox: 1st Date: / /

2nd Date: / /

No of Males: No of Females:


108

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