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CODE OF ETHICS |
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Purpose: In order to achieve the Mission of the Society, the following Code of Ethics is established to act as a model of behavior for the membership. As a democratic society with a board and far reaching vision of the future, our aim is to provide guidelines that will facilitate responsible breeding and selling of Border Collies, further conscientious ownership of the breed, and lastly, foster cordial, mutually supportive relations between the individuals that The Society is comprised of. The four primary areas of interest covered by this code are Breeding, Selling, Ownership, and Conduct. The Society acknowledges that circumstances often arise that call for flexible, innovative behavior. Therefore, in all questions of ethics, covered or not covered by this Code, the member shall act solely in the best interests of the breed, in good conscience, and motivated by good intentions. Finally, The Society requires the membership as individuals and as a whole to willingly aid any Border Collie owner in upholding these interests.
Breeding: The aim of any mating is to improve the breed. Therefore, dogs and bitches must be of suitable age (BCSA strongly recommends breeding stock be at least two years old) of general overall good health and intelligence, certified free from hereditary eye defects and hip dysplasia, of good temperament, and with sound structure and bite. The owner of the sire is as responsible as the owner of the dam in all matters of the welfare of the offspring. The terms and conditions of the mating must be clear to all parties prior to mating. Proper documentation of the mating is also essential.
Selling: All Border Collies sold shall be in good health and of a suitable age to leave litters (7 weeks old minimum age recommended), properly documented (pedigree and registration). The terms and conditions of the sale shall be clearly outlined, with written instructions on feeding, health, training, and grooming being provided by the seller. Advertising must be of an honest and informative nature and the price of the dog reasonable, according to the quality, the achievements, the bloodlines, and the potential of the dog. Sellers are obligated to take back or help rehome any dog they sell, regardless of the reason of circumstance necessitating return. Sellers shall keep a record of names and addresses of all buyers, offering support and advice to all. It is prohibited to sell, consign or donate dogs to commercial dog wholesalers, retailers (pet shops), laboratories, or raffles. Moreover, Sellers should refrain from selling to unethical breeders or persons whose intentions are unknown or suspect.
Ownership: Owners shall ensure their Border Collies receive appropriate immunizations, any necessary veterinary care, and adequate nutrition. Owners shall ensure their dogs receive proper training and control, preventing any charges of public endangerment or nuisance. Any public fouling will be immediately cleaned up. All dogs will be properly licensed according to community regulations. Owners will advise Breeders if any hereditary diseases or conditions arise, providing copies of veterinary documentation or correspondence. Owners will never abandon their Border Collies. When dogs cannot be kept, the Owner will contact the Breeder for possible return or help in rehoming. Failing that, the Owner shall contact the BCSA for Border Collie Rescue assistance. The last resort will be the local humane society.
Conduct: The Mission and the Vision of the Border Collie Society of America must be uppermost in the minds of members. All actions in regard to the dogs, fellow members and the general public must consider the best interests of the breed. Conduct shall be positively directed towards educating the public about the breed, improving one's own knowledge about the breed, and demonstrating good sportsmanship. Degrading another member's kennel or stock with malicious intent is prohibited. It is further prohibited to threaten any members, their Border Collies or their property IN ANY FASHION. The BCSA advocates public release of information regarding any aspect of breeding as long as that information is released with permission of all parties involved and accompanied by proper professional documentation. For example, if a Border Collie is found to be affected with PRA, the owner should provide veterinary documentation, ensuring that both the owner of the sire and dam are also notified. Actions such as altering, hiding, or destroying information/certification are also prohibited. Gossip, hearsay and innuendo are discouraged. Facts, official results, and professional communications are encouraged.
Enforcement and Discipline: It is the responsibility of each member to make an inquiry concerning suspected violations of this Code of Ethics. Should such a violation appear to exist, the Board of Directors should be notified and action taken in accordance with Article VI, Section 2 of the Constitution and By-Laws of the Border Collie Society of America, Inc. Board members may not take an active part in decisions that personally affect them. By adhering to this Code of Ethics, we will accomplish the Mission of the Border Collie Society of America, Inc. and reach the Vision for which we all strive.
From the BCSA Constitution and By-Laws:
Any member may prefer charges against another member for alleged misconduct prejudicial to the best interests of the Club or the breed. The Board shall rule on the charges and award appropriate disciplinary action not excluding suspension or expulsion.
Page Updated 08.02.2007