The Flatcoated Retriever Club of Scotland

Code of Ethics

THE FLATCOATED RETRIEVER CLUB OF SCOTLAND'S ADOPTED CODE OF ETHICS FOR ALL OWNERS/BREEDERS OF FLATCOATED RETRIEVERS.

Amended 25.2.06.

This Code Of ethics is devised in accordance with the Aims and Objectives of the Flatcoated Retriever Club of Scotland. The Club expects all members to conduct themselves in accordance with the Code as laid down below.

A breeder shall only breed from those Flatcoated Retrievers believed to be clear from known serious hereditary defects and which are not suffering from any acute problems. To this effect it is recommended that all breeding stock be x-rayed for hip dysphasia and in addition to the annual general examination of the eyes, undergo a gonioscopy examination for goniodysgenesis/primary glaucoma under the BVA/KC eye scheme. Gonioscopy is a once only examination. At all times the improvement of breeding stock must be the primary consideration.

Stud dog owners must satisfy themselves as to the suitability of the bitch's breeding and the conditions under which the litter would be reared. A stud dog owner must be satisfied that both bitch and stud dog have undergone the necessary health screening.

It is recommended that bitches should not be bred from until at least 2 1/2 years old. Normally no bitch would be expected to produce more than 3 litters or a total of 30 puppies, whichever is lesser. No bitch over 8 years old should be bred from. The Kennel Club will not register the progeny of such bitches unless prior permission has been given.

All puppies sold over 12 weeks of age should be inoculated and no puppy should normally change homes under 7 weeks of age.

The breeder of the puppies shall provide a copy of the pedigree, proof of registration, a satisfactory diet sheet, complete health record and details of worming at the time of sale and advise on appropriate dates for inoculations. Hip and eye certificates for the parents should be available for inspection by prospective owners. Any KC restrictions on the puppies registrations should be fully explained and recorded in writing.

Breeders shall at all times be extremely careful when advertising or selling puppies.

Members shall not knowingly sell Flatcoated Retrievers to commercial dealers, retailers or laboratories. When exporting overseas, all buyers should be investigated to ensure the suitability of the puppies future homes. The ethics of the country with regard to dogs should also be taken into account.

If puppies are sold on breeding terms, a breeding terms contract must be endorsed by the Kennel Club.

Members shall at all times maintain a high standard of health and care for their Flatcoats.

When their dogs are away from home, members shall ensure that their dogs wear properly tagged collars and are kept fully leashed or under effective control.