Trade Me's puppy code not good enough - advocates

File photo / NZ Herald

A proposed voluntary code of conduct for breeders selling puppies on Trade Me doesn't go far enough, say animal advocates.

Paw Justice, which launched a "Don't Trade Me" campaign for the regulation of online puppy sales last month, said only a mandatory compliance regime would deter irresponsible breeders.

In response to the campaign, Trade Me said it was working on a code of responsible breeding in consultation with animals rights group Safe and the SPCA.

Paw Justice co-founder Craig Dunn said it was happy Trade Me was working to address the issue, but a voluntary code did not go far enough.

"We applaud Trade Me for making changes but if the new code of conduct is voluntary, it won't solve the problem of puppy milling -- the only people who will volunteer are those who are likely to be already breeding and selling responsibly

"We know there are many legitimate, responsible breeders and sellers on Trade Me however regulations which require mandatory compliance before people can list their animals are needed to deter irresponsible breeders who are only in it for the profit."

Paw Justice is also campaigning for amendments to the Animal Welfare Act in relation to puppy breeding.

Puppy mills are factory farms which breed dogs for commercial purposes. The dogs are often kept in substandard conditions and confined to cages, resulting in-breeding, genetic defects and life-long injuries for dogs.