Man’s best mate, family pet and very much an essential player on the farming scene has been covered by a new set of rules to ensure the minimum standards of care and welfare.

Recommended best practises have been outlined by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee and these apply to anyone responsible for dogs, including those that have them as pets, show dogs, working dogs or those used for breeding or sport.

The code offers practical information and 21 minimum standards relating to all aspects of dog ownership and care, including water, food and body condition, containment and shelter, breeding and inherited disorders, behaviour, training, tail docking, transportation and euthanasia.

Under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 it is the legal responsibility of all animal owners to ensure that the physical health and behavioural needs of their dogs are met and that they receive high standards of care.

“The code is intended to encourage all those responsible for the welfare of dogs to exceed minimum standards and adopt best practises of husbandry, care and handling,” says National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee chairman, Dr John Hellström.

The Code of Welfare for Dogs was drafted by a group convened by the New Zealand Companion Animal Council (NZCAC) and reviewed by representatives of animal welfare organisations, breeders, farmer representatives, local councils, veterinarians and members of the public.

Copies are available online at http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/animal-welfare or by request from animalwelfare@maf.govt.nz.