The Victorian government has delivered the toughest restrictions on the breeding of dogs and cats in the world.
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Victorian dog and cat breeding establishments must now comply with a strict new mandatory Code of Practice that came into effect on April 11.
The new code has more than 100 individual requirements for breeding establishments including compulsory veterinary checks, health plans, nutrition plans, exercise and social enrichment requirements, and retirement plans post-breeding for dogs and cats.
Under the new code there are now health and well-being assurances for dogs and cats that never previously existed in Victoria. Previously there were no maximum breeding limits. Now, female dogs have a five-litter limit and only a registered, qualified vet can clear that animal for a subsequent litter.
The Victorian government has also increased penalties for unregistered and non-compliant breeders and there are now jail terms and fines up to $60,000 for aggravated cruelty convictions.
This is in stark contrast to Labor, which ignored animal welfare concerns and refused to update the Breeding and Rearing Code during 11 years in government.
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