AAPDB COMPLAINTS POLICY

The Australian Association of Pet Dog Breeders exists to support and promote responsible, ethical breeding of healthy family pet dogs; to support the welfare of family pets at all stages of their life; to provide quality assurance for members of the public seeking a responsibly bred pet dog and to promote responsible pet ownership.

Before making a complaint about a breeder please check that the breeder is a member of the AAPDB by visiting our find a member page and verify the status of a member. If the member does not appear on here then they are NOT a current AAPDB member.

AAPDB does not have the authority to act in matters of animal cruelty. In all instances of animal cruelty or serious welfare complaints, the complainant will be requested to seek the assistance of relative Animal Welfare Organisations, RSPCA and/or Police. AAPDB will work with all stakeholders as appropriate toward a resolution.

It is the policy of AAPDB Inc to address all complaints in a professional, ethical, equitable and timely manner. Where-ever possible, if the complaint does not involve animal welfare, AAPDB will endeavour to mediate a mutually agreed resolution.  If this is not possible or appropriate a formal process may be commenced.

AAPDB will recognise and address formal complaints that satisfy the following conditions:

• the complaint is received through the AAPDB Website complaints form, AND
• the Complainant has identified themselves and provided contact phone numbers, email and address, AND
• the complaint is not hearsay, AND
• the complaint concerns a breach of AAPDB Inc membership requirements.

Wherever possible the identity of the Complainant will be kept confidential, however, it may be disclosed to AAPDB Complaints Sub Committee members as necessary to complete investigations.

AAPDB takes complaints seriously and welcomes the opportunity to improve the experience of all stakeholders. This important feedback provides the Association with the opportunity to improve our procedures and provide training and support to our Members, and most importantly, foster the ethical breeding of healthy family pets.