AVA Submission – ACT Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has provided a submission on the ACT Government’s Draft Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs. We welcome the Code’s strong foundations and recommend targeted amendments to improve clarity, enforceability and alignment with contemporary veterinary science - so the rules work in practice for dogs, owners and inspectors alike. Our advice emphasises outcomes-focused standards, positive-reinforcement training, practical limits on tethering, sensible temperature safeguards, evidence-based breeding requirements, and a best-practice identification and traceability workflow. 

The AVA looks forward to working with the ACT Government to finalise a Code that lifts welfare, supports responsible ownership and helps veterinarians focus on delivering high-quality clinical care.

Read the full submission here.