This Code of Ethics is presented as a guide for members whose foremost
aims should be the welfare and improvement of the breed. The purpose of
these guidelines is to set forth minimum principles of practice to
which the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States, Inc. would have
its members adhere as they strive to accomplish the goals and purposes
set forth in the constitution and bylaws of RRCUS. These guidelines are
presented with the realization that ethics are difficult to regulate and
that most individuals desire and intend to do what is right. Education
and communication are the preferred methods of obtaining compliance to
this code; however, flagrant, serious and/or repeated disregard of this
code may result in charges. When in doubt of any of the following
points, an ethical owner is encouraged to consult with authorities such
as experienced, reputable breeders or the Ethics Committee.
I. Health
All dogs shall be kept in a clean, healthy, and safe environment.
Dogs will be provided with all socialization, vaccinations, worming,
and anti-parasite treatments necessary to provide maximum mental and
physical well being.
When a Ridgeback must be euthanized the procedure should be humanely performed.
II. Breeding
A breeder's aim and foremost responsibility shall be to produce the
healthiest and best representatives of the breed possible.
Each litter shall be the result of conscientious planning, including
consideration of health, soundness, temperament, and conformity to the
official standard of the breed.
Only healthy, mature adult dogs shall be used in a breeding program.
Additional precautions, including a veterinarian consultation, should be
taken when breeding a bitch over seven (7) years and under 18 months of
age.
Only dogs screened and certified clear of hip dysplasia shall be
bred. Breeders are encouraged to screen for all appropriate hereditary
disorders.
Only purebred, American Kennel Club (AKC) [or equivalent] registered
Rhodesian Ridgebacks shall be used for breeding.
Stud dog owners shall adhere to these guidelines and ensure that the
litter owner is aware of, and agrees to abide by, this Code of Ethics.
III. Sales
Breeders must be particularly concerned with the proper placement of
puppies, both pet and show potential. Puppies should not be displayed
in public places for the sole purpose of immediate sale.
Breeders shall urge purchasers to spay or neuter any dog which is not
considered breedable quality and make use of limited registrations where
appropriate. If puppies with serious defects or faults (dermoid sinus,
ridgelessness) are sold rather than culled, the breeder must take the
extra responsibility to see that the dog is spayed or neutered. Dermoid
surgery should be performed prior to placing the pup in a new home.
Members will not knowingly furnish puppies or adult dogs for
wholesale, pet shops, or dispose of them as "Give away" prizes;
neither will they sell puppies to nor breed to dogs owned by those whom
they have reason to believe may do so.
Members will not dispose of dogs or puppies by giving them to the
local animal shelter, pound, humane society or any organization of that
type.
Registration papers or a bill of sale stating sire, dam, and date of
birth shall accompany puppies as they go new homes.
Breeders shall furnish the buyer with written details on feeding,
dates of inoculations, worming, and general care of the dog.
Responsibility of the breeder does not stop with the sale. The
breeder should be available for consultation and to assist in the
placement of any dog sold by the breeder if such need arises.
IV. Registration and Records
All members shall keep complete and accurate records of individual
dogs, breedings, litters, pedigrees, and puppy sales as required by the
AKC, and abide by the AKC rules and regulations.
V. Exibition
Members shall abide by the rules and regulations of the AKC (or the
rules of the Club under which the event is held), and exhibit in the
spirit of good sportsmanship.
Hotels and show grounds shall be treated with respect and left in a
clean condition.
Consideration of other guests in the hotel is imperative and dogs
creating a disturbance are to be attended to immediately and precautions
taken to see that it does not happen again.
A member does not engage in false or misleading statements regarding
a judge, exhibitor, fellow member, another dog, or misrepresentation of
their own dogs.
Alleged misconduct should be objectively and calmly presented to the
proper representative of this Club or the AKC when appropriate.
Members shall do all within their power to uphold, promote, and protect
the interests of the breed by conducting themselves in a manner
reflecting credit on the Club, its members, their dogs, and the dog
world in general.
