Code of Ethics

GREAT LAKES CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL CLUB

ETHICAL GUIDELINES FOR MEMBERS

Part A: General

1. The purpose of these ethical guidelines is to improve and protect the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and to promote good sportsmanship between club members and Cavalier owners.
2. The club recognizes the purpose of breeding Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is to attempt to bring their natural qualities to perfection in accordance with the AKC Breed Standard.

Part B: Recommended Guidelines for Breeding a Cavalier Bitch:

1. Before breeding my bitch, I will study the AKC Breed Standard and breed only those specimens that meet the standard.
2. I will not breed a bitch until her third season, or before she reaches eighteen (18) months of age.
3. I will not breed any bitch once she has reached eight (8) years of age.
4. I will not breed any bitch unless I am prepared to keep all puppies for which I cannot find suitable homes.
5. I will make certain that my breeding bitch is screened for Mitral Valve Disease and inherited eye disorders.

Part C: Recommended Guidelines for Breeding Stud Dogs:

1. Before placing my dog at stud, I will study the AKC Breed Standard and breed only those bitches that meet the standard.
2. I will not offer stud services to any persons who do not take sincere ethical measures to protect/improve the breed, or to any persons who would place pet puppies without spay/neuter contracts.
3. I will make certain that my stud dog is screened for Mitral Valve Disease and inherited eye disorders.

Part D: Recommended Guidelines for selling Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppies:

1. I will discriminate in the placement of the Cavalier puppies or adults that I breed.
2. I will not place puppies/adults in pet shops, with animal brokers or persons who sell/buy in litter lots.
3. I will not donate puppies/adults for raffles or contests.
4. I will not release puppies to new homes before 8 weeks of age and all will have immunizations/wormings appropriate for their age.
5. I will provide instructions to new owners on the care and feeding of their puppy/dog. It is strongly advised that puppies be checked by a veterinarian prior to leaving for their new home and that the veterinary health certificate be provided to the new owner(s).
6. In the event that a puppy/adult that I place cannot be kept by the buyers, the sales contract will state that the puppy/adult will be returned to me or that I will assist in finding a suitable home for the puppy/adult.