This Code of Ethics is presented solely as a guide for breeders and owners of pedigree dogs whose foremost aim should be the welfare and improvement of their dogs. The purpose of these guidelines is to set minimum principles of practice to which The Barbados Kennel Club would wish its members to adhere. While we believe that most individuals desire to do what is right, we are aware that ethics are difficult to regulate. We therefore present this Code of Ethics in the belief that communications and education are the desired methods of obtaining compliance with the recommendations set out herein.

I HEALTH

(i) Owners should properly house, feed, water, groom and exercise all dogs under their care and arrange for appropriate veterinary attention if and when required.

II BREEDING

(i) Only healthy, mature adult dogs should be used in a breeding programme.

(ii) Only purebred, Barbados Kennel Club registered dogs should be used for breeding.

(iii) Owners should not breed from a bitch in any way which is deleterious to the bitch or the breed.

(iv) The Barbados Kennel Club will not accept applications for registration of litters:-

(v) Offspring resulting from matings after January 1st 2019 between father and daughter, mother and son, full brother and sister save in exceptional circumstances or for scientifically proven welfare reasons and permission has been received.

(vi) Offspring of a dam which has already had three (3) litters delivered by caesarean section, save for scientifically proven welfare reasons, and this only provided an application is made to the BKC prior to the mating.

(vii) If the dam is aged 8 at the date of whelping.

(viii) If the dam has previously whelped 6 litters

(ix) If the dam was under one year old at the time of mating.

(x) If the sire was under 6 months at the time of mating

III SALES

(i) Breeders should agree to sell dogs only where there is reasonable expectation of a happy and healthy life. They should be willing to help with the rehousing of a dog if changed circumstances make it necessary.

(ii) Breeders should supply written details of dietary requirements and inoculations and give guidance concerning responsible ownership when placing dogs in new homes.

(iii) Owners should not sell any dog to commercial dog wholesalers, retail pet dealers or directly or indirectly allow dogs to be given as a prize or donation in a competition of any kind.

(iv) Owners should not knowingly misrepresent the characteristics of the breed nor falsely advertise dogs nor mislead any person regarding the quality of the dog.

(v) Owners should ensure that all relevant Barbados Kennel Club documents are provided to the new owner when selling or transferring a dog, including a copy of this code.

(vi) Breeders must be particularly concerned with the proper placement of puppies; both pet and show potential. Breeders shall urge purchasers to spay or neuter any dog which is not considered breedable quality.

IV CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY

(i) Owners should not allow their dogs roam at large or to cause a nuisance to neighbours or those carrying official duties.

(ii) Owners should ensure that their dogs be kept leased or
under effective control when away from home.

(iii) Owners should clean up after their dogs in public places (including showgrounds)

V EXHIBITION

(i) Exhibitors shall abide by the rules and regulations of the Barbados Kennel Club and exhibit in the spirit of good sportsmanship.

(ii) Show grounds should be treated with respect and left in a clean condition.

(iii) Exhibitors should not engage in false or misleading statements regarding a judge, exhibitor, another dog, or misrepresentation of their own dogs.

(iv) Alleged misconduct should be objectively and calmly presented to The Barbados Kennel Club in accordance with its Show Rules and Regulations.

Members of The Barbados Kennel Club are expected to do all within their power to uphold, promote and protect the interest of pedigree dogs by conducting themselves in a manner reflecting credit on the Club, its members and their dogs.

JANUARY 1, 2019