No place for puppy farms in Queensland

The discovery of malnourished dogs, some in need of urgent veterinary care, at a remote rural property near Goondiwindi, shows precisely why the Palaszczuk Government is acting on illegal puppy farms says Agriculture Minister Bill Byrne.

“There is no place in Queensland for cruel and unethical exploitation of dogs for profit. Absolutely no place in a civilised society for puppy farms,” the Minister said.

“We will not tolerate animal cruelty on any level.

“We went to the election promising to shut down puppy farms and we have worked with the RSPCA and responsible breeders to it.

“Our new dog breeder registration laws are designed to make it impossible for unregistered operators to function.

“When we introduced the legislation last year the RSPCA estimated there were at least 100 operations in our state. They are notoriously difficult for the authorities to find and close down.

“That is why our Protecting Puppies legislation makes it mandatory for breeders to register and provide a supply number when selling, giving away or advertising a dog.

“From 26 May all dog breeders in Queensland will need to be registered

“All those who are seeking to buy a puppy will then be able to know instantly if the pet is being supplied by a breeder who is registered and complies with legislation.

“In this way, with the help of Queenslanders who buy puppies, we will be able to drive the rogue operators out of business.

“The RSPCA will know where all the breeders are located and will be able to inspect their premises to confirm that all dogs are being treated well, exercised, properly fed and watered and professionally cared for when they fall ill.”

He said the penalties applicable in Queensland for animal cruelty were among the most severe in Australia with those guilty of breaching a duty of care punishable by a fine of up to $36,570 or one year’s imprisonment.

“For the most severe cases of animal cruelty the courts can impose a maximum fine of $243,800 or a jail term of three years,” he said.

Minister Byrne praised the Queensland Police Service and RSPCA for the operation to rescue 91 animals from the property at Glenarbon.

If you have any concerns about the welfare of animals in Queensland you can report these to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL.

For more information about the dog breeder registration scheme or animal welfare in Queensland visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au

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