Prospective pet owners are being encouraged to make informed decisions in a new campaign from Animal Welfare Victoria to help combat animal scammers and dodgy breeders.
Launching the Choosing a Healthy Pet campaign, Minister for Agriculture, Mary-Anne Thomas said it would help dog and cat buyers avoid common pitfalls and identify the warning signs of illegal or unethical breeding.
“With demand for pets increasing during the pandemic, there has also been an increase in scams and illegal behaviour,” Ms Thomas said.
“The Choosing a Healthy Pet checklist supports Victorian pet owners with important advice on steps they can take when selecting a new pet, as well as useful information about breeds, pet health and behaviour,” she said.
“Finding the right pet for your family can be a difficult decision and it’s important to ask the right questions to identify dodgy breeders and avoid pet scams.”
Ms Thomas said pet buyers should not buy pets from a car park or other public place, as “it is illegal to sell companion animals in public places without a permit and this is a common sign that a sale may not be legitimate”.
The Minister said prospective owners should always meet the pet and its parents if they could; ask to see the animal’s current living conditions; and check the advertisement included a source number and that the number was valid on the Pet Exchange Register website.
“Make sure to get proof of vet checks, microchipping and vaccinations – it is a requirement to microchip all cats and dogs before they are sold or given away in Victoria,” she said.
“Immediately update your pet’s microchip details after purchase and register them with your local Council.”
Animal Welfare Victoria’s Pet Exchange Register can be accessed at this PS News link.
