Purpose
This policy has been established to protect the welfare of animals by discouraging irresponsible breeding practices and supporting ethical, sustainable animal care. The Trustees of the RSPCA Suffolk Central (‘The Branch’) do not believe that charity funds under their stewardship should be used to promote, support or in any way encourage the breeding of animals for profit.
Policy statement
RSPCA Suffolk Central is committed to promoting the well-being and humane treatment of all animals. As part of this commitment, we have implemented a strict Anti-breeding policy. This policy is designed to discourage animal overpopulation and prevent the exploitation of animals for profit through breeding. Therefore, we reserve the right to refuse service to individuals, groups, or organisations that engage in or support breeding activities.
Scope
This policy applies to all customers, clients, and associates interacting with RSPCA Suffolk Central. It includes but is not limited to, animal adoption, veterinary care, boarding, grooming, and any other animal-related services provided by our organisation.
Policy guidelines
- Refusal of service: We will refuse service to any individual, group, or organisation that breeds animals for profit, sale, or any other purpose that is inconsistent with the ethical treatment of animals as accepted by the Branch.
- Definition of breeding: For the purpose of this policy, ‘breeding’ is defined as the intentional pairing of animals to produce offspring. This includes hobby breeding, commercial breeding, and any other form of reproduction planning that does not contribute to the welfare and responsible stewardship of animals.
Ethical exceptions
Ethical breeding practices that focus on animal conservation, breed preservation under regulated circumstances, and cases where breeding is necessary to preserve a species may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Such practices must align with strict ethical guidelines as accepted by the Branch and legal standards.
Customer responsibility
Customers who seek to utilise our services are required to disclose any involvement in animal breeding. Failure to do so will result in immediate denial of service and may lead to further action, including being permanently barred from future interactions with RSPCA Suffolk Central.
Reporting violations
We encourage our customers to report any known or suspected breeding activities that may be inconsistent with this policy. Reports will be treated confidentially, and appropriate action will be taken after a thorough investigation.
Enforcement
Failure to comply with this policy will result in the immediate refusal of service and potential future exclusion from all services offered by RSPCA Suffolk Central. Our staff is fully empowered to enforce this policy and will do so without bias or discrimination.
