A commission on cruel breeding consisting exclusively of experts, dog breeding as a non-commercial activity and the prevention of bans on certain dog breeds are negotiating successes of the ÖKV.
Vienna (OTS) – The amendment to the Animal Welfare Act (TSchG) was surprisingly introduced in the National Council today. Although the responsible minister Rauch unfortunately did not include it in the basic draft of the amendment, the ÖKV managed to contribute its expertise in discussions with other government representatives and MPs. Originally completely excessive provisions and absurd demands such as bans on certain dog breeds that have no scientific basis were thus able to be defused and key demands implemented. This means that it remains recognized that dog breeding is not a commercial activity. “This is enormously important for responsible and functioning dog breeding in Austria,” stresses ÖKV President Philipp Ita.
“Due to Federal Minister Rauch’s constant refusal to talk, a great opportunity was missed to support responsible dog breeders and set an example for healthy dogs in Austria,” said Ita. “Only 10 percent of all dogs kept in Austria come from controlled ÖKV breeding facilities. Breeding is already only carried out with dogs that have been found to be healthy.” However, the TSchG amendment mainly regulates those dog breeders who already work responsibly and carefully, while illegal dog breeders and dealers can carry on as before. “They breed like crazy and pay no attention to animal health or animal welfare-compliant living conditions. We therefore continue to demand stronger action against these illegal activities,” said Ita.
On the positive side, the ÖKV highlights the fact that the planned cruel breeding commission will be staffed exclusively with experts. There is also a move away from individual animal assessments and towards an assessment of the breeding regulations. In addition, Ita is in favor of clarifications for exhibitions in the current TSchG: According to this, dogs may not be exhibited if they show externally recognizable signs of cruel breeding that are identified by a veterinarian. A practice that has already been used at ÖKV events to date and which will hopefully finally lead to more uniform enforcement.
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