Pyrenean Mastiff Club of Canada (PMCC)
This Code of Ethics is set forth to protect and advance the interests of the Pyrenean Mastiff in Canada and to encourage sportsmanlike competition at dog shows and all other dog sports and events, including a respect for people and dogs regardless of location or circumstances.
Its purpose is to encourage the improvement and preservation of the breed through selective breeding, recognition of the original purpose of the breed as a working dog and an acceptance of the AKC breed standard as the ultimate standard.
Pyrenean Mastiff Club of Canada members are to adhere to this code when buying, breeding, selling and competing with their Pyrenean Mastiffs. Members should make their knowledge and experience available to the novice owners. The Pyrenean Mastiff Club of Canada encourages all members to exceed all practices set forth in this code of ethics.
General Conduct Of Members
• Abide by the PMCC constitution and bylaws
• Treat all other members of the Pyrenean Mastiff Club of Canada with respect and understanding. At no time shall any member of the PMCC harass or be slanderous of any other member. Harassment and all types of defamation of character and or any threatening behavior, be it spoken, written, or in any form of electronic media will not be tolerated. This type of behavior is detrimental to the breed, the club and its members. Any member found harassing or damaging any club member or the club itself shall be given fair warning and dealt with in the manner set out in our Constitution and Bylaws. All members should be respectful of the efforts and opinions of others, affording others the respect that they themselves would expect. Criticism should only be of a constructive nature and worded carefully so as not to be construed as being counterproductive. It is further understood that a member acting on behalf of another person, be it a member or non-member is responsible for their actions as if they were their own.
• Maintain the best accepted, reasonable and responsible standards of canine health, hygiene, feeding, care and training.
• Raise their Pyrenean Mastiffs with the highest possible level of positive human interaction and socialization possible to encourage the development of proper balanced temperament.
• Maintain their Pyrenean Mastiff’s condition, health and living quarters in a manner that is above reproach.
• Not relinquish a Pyrenean Mastiff to an animal shelter. Every attempt must be made to contact the original breeder and or obtain help from other PMCC members in properly placing the dog.
• Not sell, place or consign any Pyrenean Mastiff to a commercial facility, business or agent thereof. Third party sales are not allowed.
Breeding
• All breeding stock shall be registered with the American Kennel Club. All Pyrenean Mastiff born in Canada must be registered with the AKC.
• Breeding should only be done with the intention of improving the breed.
• Breeders should educate themselves on the Pyrenean Mastiff, AKC breed standard and breed dogs conforming to said standard.
• Breeders should aim to be breeding for healthy, sound dogs with type that display sound temperament and qualities and that are free of severe or disqualifying faults.
• All Breeders should utilize available health tests for the breed in an effort to minimize or eliminate the occurrence of potential genetic defects. At a minimum hips and elbows should be evaluated by OFA and DNA panel should be completed.
•Members shall not use bitches for breeding until they are at least 24 months of age. A normal bitch (i.e. having a six-month cycle) should not be bred more than 2 out of 3 consecutive seasons unless so directed by a licensed veterinarian.
•To the best of their ability evaluate puppies and dogs and the perspective placement homes for compatibility to strive for lifelong placements.
•To the best of their ability verify that the people with whom they placed puppies/dogs with will provide a suitable home and be responsible owners.
• If a puppy buyer is unable for whatever reason to keep their Pyrenean Mastiff, all breeders should make sure that those dogs either come back to the breeder’s home or are placed in appropriate homes.
• Conduct all business dealings regarding breeding and the placement of puppies or dogs with honesty, completeness and clarity to the best of their ability.
• All breeders should conduct business with a comprehensive written contract to avoid misconceptions and confusion at the time of the transaction and in the future and making sure that the contract is understood at the time of sale is a matter of best conduct.
Registration
• All puppies born from any litter born in Canada must be Permanently identified with a microchip and registered with the AKC.
Enforcement
Any member of the PMCC who in the opinion of the Board of Directors contravenes this Code of Ethics may be subject to reprimand, suspension or expulsion from the PMCC as provided for in the club Constitution and Bylaws.