WHAT ARE THE PETS POLICIES?

These policies are based on RSPCA principles

1. The 1Trade Pets section exists to help the community find safe, caring homes for pets. All ads placed in the 1Trade Pets section must comply with the 1Trade Pets Code Of Practice.
   
   
2. For advice on responsible pet ownership, please see our 1Trade Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership section below.
   
   
3. The 1Trade Pets section is NOT intended to facilitate uncontrolled or irresponsible breeding, irresponsible commercial pet trading, trade of dogs or any other animal for the purpose of fighting or stud services. Any ads reported to us for promoting this kind of activity will be removed. Users are responsible for complying with 1Trade’s policies about adopting, buying or selling a pet and posting an ad on 1Trade.
   
   
4. 1Trade is a community site and we rely on your feedback to keep the site friendly and safe. We like to think of it as you, the 1Trade community, ’policing’ the site and keeping out the bad guys. So, in each ad you will find a Report ad button. You can use this button to report ads which you believe promote uncontrolled / unsafe / unethical / irresponsible breeding practices and we will take a look.
   
   
5. In our continuous commitment to animal welfare, animal rights and responsible pet ownership, we have the following rules in the Pets category on 1Trade:

POLICIES FOR ALL POSTERS:

1. 1Trade encourages all pet owners to have their animals checked with a vet, vaccinated and microchipped before they are advertised on 1Trade.
   
   
2. If you are selling a microchipped pet, microchipping documentation should be provided to the buyer. Microchipping is currently required in all States/Territories except the Northern Territory. Please visit RSPCA website for more information.
   
   
3. In accordance with RSPCA guidelines, the following information must be included in the description of your advertisement (if it is not otherwise being provided as part of the advertisement):
   
   
   • Vaccination status: vaccinated or unvaccinated
     
     
   • Desexed status: desexed or entire
     
     
   • Health Status: has the animal undergone a veterinary check in the last 12 months? (Yes or No)
     
     
   • Breeder Registration Number (or similar identification): This requirement varies in different jurisdictions (for example, some jurisdictions have a mandatory dog breeder register). If unsure, you should check with the relevant local authority.
     
     
   • Sex: male or female
     
     
   • Expected Adult Size: very small, small, medium, large or very large
     
     
4. All ads must include an accurate date of birth for the animal. Animals must be of a certain age before they can be sold or made available for adoption, as they must be self-sufficient – i.e. they must be able to feed themselves, independently. Please find below our policy as to the minimum required age a specific animal must be before it can be sold or made available for adoption. We strictly enforce these policies as part of our commitment to animal welfare. You can post your ad before the minimum required age as long as you ensure to include the date the animal will be available for adoption/rehoming/sale in your ad description. If the attribute corresponding to the date of birth is not otherwise included in the process of creating your ad, please ensure it is accurately and clearly described in your ad description.
   
   
5. Minimum required age:
   
   
   • Cats and Dogs: must be at least 8 weeks old. Unborn puppies and kittens are not permitted to be posted.
     
     
   • Rabbits: must be at least 8 weeks old.
     
     
   • Guinea Pigs, Mice and Rats: must be at least 4 weeks old.
     
     
   • Birds: must be fully weaned.
     
     
   • Ferrets: must be at least 10 weeks old.
     
     
   • No holding deposits are allowed.
     
     
6. Frequency of breeding should be based on veterinary advice. Breeding females should not be made to breed more than once in a 12-month period; this is considered unhealthy
   
   
7. The following breeds of dog cannot be advertised on 1Trade:
   
   
   • Pit Bull Terriers;
     
     
   • American Pit Bull Terriers;
     
     
   • Dogo Argentino (Argentinian fighting dogs);
     
     
   • Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian fighting dogs);
     
     
   • Japanese Tosas;
     
     
   • Perro de Presa Canario;
     
     
   • Dogs that have been declared as a dangerous dog under any state law or regulatory guidance; and
     
     
   • dogs used or intended to be used as commercial security dogs.
     
     
8. Breeders should allow potential buyers to visit the place where the animal was bred to meet the mother animal (and father, if that is possible).

Additional policies for unregistered breeders (those who are not registered with a breeder association):

1. A pricing limit of $500 per pet advertised for adoption/sale applies to any unregistered breeder or private advertiser. The price must be stated in the ad’s price field. Unregistered breeders/owners are NOT permitted to use the ‘Please Contact’ price option in their pet ads.
   
   
2. Please note, if you have a Government-issued registration number as required by your State and you are not registered with a breeder association there is a pricing limit of $500 and the price must be included in the ad’s price field. This policy is in place because 1Trade cares deeply about the codes of practice for responsible breeding and the current Government breeder registrations do not regulate these standards.

Additional policies for breeders registered with a breeder association:

1. Breeders must include the breeder association they are registered with in their ad description and should provide their membership details to buyers.
   
   
2. Breeders should provide their government registration/licence/permit details to buyers, where this applies in their State/local council area. Requirements can vary between States/regions.
   
   
3. You must also comply with all federal and State laws. We have specifically listed in our pets policies any applicable State laws (as below), but please be advised this is not an exhaustive list of the laws and regulations that apply in your State. It is your responsibility to ensure that your ad complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
   
   
4. Additionally, you can check with your local council, State regulatory body and any other relevant industry groups for any specific policies, rules and/or regulations about the sale of pets in your State.

STATE-SPECIFIC POLICES:

All ads posted in the 1Trade pets section must comply with the 1Trade Pets Policy and this Pets Code of Practice set out below. We understand some Australian states have different laws, please check with the relevant governing body in your state for further clarification. Any ads found to be breaching applicable laws and reported to us for breaching these laws will be removed from 1Trade.

VICTORIA

From 1 July 2019, any person or business who is advertising to sell or give away a dog or cat must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register. From 1 July 2019, It is a legal and site requirement that all dogs and cats advertised in Victoria have a microchip number and source number generated by the Pet Exchange Register as outlined by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries. Each full microchip number and the source number for your cat or dog must be included in the ad description.

Buyers and adopters are strongly encouraged to verify the source number on dog and cat ads on the Pet Exchange Register before purchasing/adopting the pet.

QUEENSLAND

It is a legal and site requirement that all dogs advertised in Queensland born after or on 26 May 2017 must be registered with the Queensland Dog Breeder Register and their Supply Number must be included in the ad description, unless they are subject to one of the exemptions. Please refer to the Queensland Dog Breeder Register for more information about supply numbers and exemptions here. Please note that 1Trade does not verify the Supply Number posted in the ad and strongly encourages potential buyers to confirm the accuracy of the Supply Number using the Queensland Dog Breeder Register before purchasing your dog. Please also double check whether your dog may be exempt from the requirement for a Supply Number. If you have any questions about the Queensland laws, contact the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries here.

NEW SOUTH WALES

From 1 July 2019 in NSW, it is a legal and site requirement that all users advertising dogs and cats for sale or give away must include the following details in their ad description. Either:

• a microchip number; or
  
  
• a breeder identification number; or
  
  
• a rehoming organisation number.

If you advertise a cat or dog for sale in NSW from 1 July 2019 and don’t use an identification number, or you falsify a number, penalties may apply. If you are looking to buy a cat or dog in NSW, search the NSW Pet Registry to see the information on the animal listed for sale. For more information on the new rules in NSW, visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/companion-animals.

Advertising reptiles (turtles, snakes, crocodiles and lizards) and amphibians (toads and frogs) is prohibited by law in NSW. Department of Planning, Industry and Environment clearly state that you are not allowed to advertise to buy or sell animals, except in the newsletters of the reptile or frog keeper associations to which you personally belong. Reptiles and amphibians cannot be advertised in NSW locations on 1Trade.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

In South Australia, if you advertise a cat or dog you must include your Breeder Registration Number (BRN) in your ad description.

In addition, it is a legal and site requirement that all sellers in South Australia must include in their advertisements for dogs and cats:

1. the identity of the seller (name, address, phone number);
   
   
2. the identity of the breeder (name, address, phone number and dealer registration number);
   
   
3. the vaccinations that the dog or cat has had and details of any other veterinary treatment received;
   
   
4. whether the dog or cat has been microchipped, and if it has, the details of the person who performed the procedure (name and address), the date of the procedure, the microchip number, and the register that the dog or cat’s microchip number is synced with, or details of a relevant exemption that applies to the dog or cat; and
   
   
5. whether the dog or cat has been de-sexed, and if it has, the details of the veterinary surgeon who performed the procedure (name and business address), the date of the procedure, the age of the dog or cat at the time of the procedure and the nature of the procedure, or details of a relevant exemption that applies to the dog or cat.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

All cats that are 6 months of age or older must be microchipped, de-sexed and registered with the local government. Cats cannot be sold or transferred to a new owner until they are de-sexed and a microchip is implanted, regardless of age (unless a vet has issued an exemption on the grounds of negative impacts on the cat’s health and welfare). Kittens that have not been de-sexed may be transferred to a new owner if a pre-paid voucher is provided to the purchaser. A microchip must always be implanted prior to the sale of a kitten regardless of age.

All dogs must be microchipped once they reach 3 months of age. Non-microchipped dogs cannot be sold or transferred to a new owner (regardless of the age of the dog), except that dogs may be exempt from receiving a microchip if they cannot receive one on medical grounds. The owner will need to hold a medical exemption certificate from a registered vet.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Under the Domestic Animals Act 2000, all ads to sell cats or dogs must include a breeder’s license number and this number must be included in your ad. There are offences for both breeding without a license and publishing an ad without breeder’s license. For more information on the new rules in ACT, visit https://ablis.business.gov.au/service/act/breeding-licence/40969.

In ACT, the keeping and selling of pythons, ferrets, many birds and some lizard species (known as “non-exempt animals”) requires a licence under the Nature Conservation Act 2014, the details of which must be included in the ad on 1Trade when selling these species. Please see the following link for more information: https://www.environment.act.gov.au/parks-conservation/plants-and-animals/animal_licensing

TASMANIA

Under the Cat Management Act 2009, all cats that are over 6 months of age must be de-sexed unless an exemption under section 14(2) applies (e.g. a veterinary surgeon has issued a certificate stating that to desex the cat may adversely affect the health and welfare of the cat).

Section 15 of the Cat Management Act 2009 states a person must not sell a cat unless the cat is de-sexed and microchipped, (unless an exemption for either requirement under section 15 of the Act applies).

Ensure your advertisement isn’t breaching any applicable laws. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to ensure that their advertisement adheres to 1Trade Posting Policies as well as applicable laws. It is a condition of your use of 1Trade, specified under our Terms of Use, that you will not violate any laws.

ADVERTISING A PET ON 1TRADE

Docked tail and cropped ear pets are not allowed on 1Trade, these are prohibited practices and 1Trade do not accept ads of this nature.

Age restrictions apply for certain types of pets advertised and animals have to be of a certain age before they are adoptable/available for rehoming/sale, (although posting your ad before they are 8 weeks old is ok, as long as its stated that the animal is only available for rehoming after the minimum required age).

1. Meet the poster of the ad and see the place where the animal is being housed before agreeing to anything. Since 1Trade is local to your community, this should be easy to arrange. Also, If you’re buying a young animal, like a puppy, kitten or baby rabbit etc, make sure you meet the mother (and father too, if that is possible) to check they’re happy and healthy and that the breeder is providing all their animals with a high standard of housing and care. Never buy a pet from someone who is unwilling to let you see how and where the animal is living!

   It is important to ensure the animal is from a legitimate breeding/housing site. Irresponsible breeders (e.g. puppy or kitten farmers) may use a fake house as a shopfront so prospective buyers don’t see the poor conditions the animals are kept in. If you have any concerns about an animal advertised on 1Trade please report it to us. You should also report this to your local RSPCA Inspectorate.

2. If you are paying for a pet, never mail a cheque or use payment services like Bidpay, Western Union or Money Gram. It is our belief that these forms of funds transfer are favoured by fraudsters. Be particularly wary of any seller who demands a deposit prior to seeing the pet. Meet the seller and animal in person, and pay cash.
   
   
3. Visit your local RSPCA or other reputable animal rescue organisation for tips on identifying responsible practices. See these RSPCA documents for detailed information:
   
   
   • Interactive RSPCA Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide
     
     
   • RSPCA Smart Puppy Buyer’s Guide pamphlet
     
     
   • RSPCA Smart Kitten & Cat Buyer’s guide
     
     
4. There are two types of registration for breeders:
   
   
   • Pedigree or purebred dog breeders are often referred to as ‘registered breeders’ when they are members of a breed club or association that operates a stud book or register, or another breeder association. The terms ‘registered breeder’ or ‘recognised breeder’ may also be used to refer to registration with the relevant local authority. This varies in different jurisdictions (for example, some jurisdictions have a mandatory dog breeder register) so you should check with the relevant local authority.
     
     
   • Requirements for dog breeders vary from state to state. We recommend you call the relevant local council to confirm if breeders have to be registered with them and whether there is a code of practice or guidelines that the breeder should be following. If the answer is yes, you can ask the breeder for their registration details and what guidelines they follow.
     
     
   • If the breeder is ‘registered’ as a member of a non-government association, e.g. State Canine council, they should also provide their membership details.
     
     
   • Note that being a ‘registered’ breeder does not necessarily mean a breeder meets good animal welfare standards. The only way to be sure is to visit the place where the animal was bred to check out the living conditions and to meet the mother dog (and father if he’s there) to check they’re happy and healthy. See What is a ‘registered breeder?
     
     
5. Check that the breeder/seller is responsible. This is important because there are a number of serious animal welfare issues that can be associated with breeding in Australia including puppy and kitten farms.
   
   
   • A puppy or kitten farm (also known as a puppy/kitten factory or puppy/kitten mill) is an intensive dog or cat breeding facility that is operated under inadequate conditions that fail to meet the animals’ behavioural, social and/or physiological needs. Puppy/kitten farms are usually large-scale commercial operations, but inadequate conditions may also exist in small volume breeding establishments which may or may not be run for profit.
     
     
   • Breeding animals and their litters on puppy/kitten farms live in appalling conditions. Dogs and cats are often kept in overcrowded and filthy environments. Breeding animals may be confined permanently in small cages, continually bred from and never allowed out for a walk, to go to the toilet in a separate space, play or express normal behaviours.
     
     
   • Be aware of other welfare problems that can be associated with breeding including inherited diseases, inbreeding and exaggerated physical features.
     
     
   • See the RSPCA Interactive Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide and the RSPCA Smart Kitten Buyer’s Guide and What animal welfare problems are associated with pedigree dog breeding? for more information.
     
     
6. Buyers of cats and dogs should expect to be provided with documentation confirming microchipping, vaccination status and vet check. It’s important that the breeder/seller is permanently recorded on the microchip register so they can be identified and traced from each individual cat or dog
   
   
7. If in doubt contact your local RSPCA
   
   
8. For tips and advice when considering adopting or buying a pet, please see our Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership below.

1TRADE DOES NOT SUPPORT PUPPY OR KITTEN MILLS

1. 1Trade does not support advertisers from puppy or kitten mills and is committed to removing any ads found to be practicing this sort of activity.
   
   
2. puppy / kitten mills, factories, farms; whichever term you want to use is an ongoing problem with the pet industry. These are places where breeders breed a wide variety of dogs and cats under inhumane conditions and indiscriminately breed on a large scale for the purpose of selling and making a profit with little thought for the animals.
   
   
3. We believe it’s important for pet adopters/buyers/sellers who are using 1Trade to read our Pets Code of Practice (Above), Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership (Below) and Policies (This Policy) to identify and report non compliant pet owners to 1Trade and relevant authorities i.e. RSPCA.
   
   
4. 1Trade is committed to animal safety and encouraging responsible pet ownership. 1Trade Pets Policies is intended to help our community understand what can and can’t be posted on 1Trade and to empower our users to assist us in highlighting non compliant advertisers so that we can remove ads that are against our policies.
   
   
5. If you know that an ad is posted from a puppy or kitten mill you must report it to us immediately by logging a ticket here and also contact the RSPCA. We will investigate the ad and take the appropriate action. Since 1Trade is local to your community, inspection should be easy to arrange. Never adopt/buy a pet from someone who is unwilling to let you see how and where the animal is living!
   
   
6. Ensure you go to the property where the pet is being kept, meet the advertiser before agreeing to anything and if you’ve noticed that the animals were reared in a non-suitable environment report it immediately – for tips on tell tale signs of questionable advertisers refer to our Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership article (Above).
   
   
7. We require that all ads that advertise adoption/sale of pets on 1Trade must comply with the 1Trade Pets Policies and Pets Code of Practice. We understand some Australian states have different laws, please check with the relevant governing body in your state for further clarification. Any ads found to be breaching applicable laws and reported to us for breaching these laws will be removed from 1Trade.
   
   
8. The 1Trade Pets section is to help the community find good, safe, caring homes for pets. This section is NOT intended to facilitate uncontrolled breeding, irresponsible commercial pet trading, trade of dogs or any other animal for the purpose of fighting or stud services. Any ads reported to us or suspected of this kind of activity will be removed.
   
   
9. Users are responsible for adhering to the applicable conditions in relation to adopting/buying, selling or listing of their ad on 1Trade.
   
   
10. 1Trade encourages, where possible, the adoption of pets and would encourage all pet owners to have their animals vet checked, vaccinated, desexed and microchipped. For further tips and advice on responsible pet ownership, please see this link for 1Trade Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership.
    
    
11. If you need further clarification please contact our support team here and they will be happy to help with any queries you might have.
    
    
12. For further information on puppy and kitten mills please visit the RSPCA discussion paper here.

1TRADE GUIDE TO RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERSHIP

1. These policies are based on RSPCA principles
   
   
2. While pet sellers can be reputable individuals or breeders who treat their animals well, the ease of selling pets over the Internet also makes it attractive to irresponsible breeders who compromise animal welfare (e.g. puppy or kitten farmers) and potentially fraudsters. To protect yourself and ensure animal welfare, you must be careful and believe only what you see, not what you are told. Always arrange an inspection to check an advertiser’s standards of care and housing conditions, and that the animals are happy and healthy.
   
   
3. Remember that the 1Trade Pets section is NOT intended to facilitate uncontrolled breeding, irresponsible commercial pet trading, trade of dogs or any other animal for the purpose of fighting or stud services. Any ads which promote this kind of activity and reported to us will be removed. Users are responsible for complying with 1Trade’s policies on adopting, buying or selling a pet and posting an ad on 1Trade.
   
   
4. 1Trade encourages all pet owners to have their animals vet checked, vaccinated and microchipped. All pets advertised in Victoria must be microchipped as outlined by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries.
   
   
5. 1Trade is a community site and we rely on your feedback to keep the site friendly and safe. We like to think of it as you, the 1Trade community, ’policing’ the site and keeping out the bad guys. On each ad there is a ’Report ad’ button that allows you to bring to our attention any ad suspected of promoting uncontrolled/unsafe/unethical breeding practices.
   
   
6. You can also report these ads by clicking on the “Contact 1Trade” link located at the bottom of our Help pages and sending through all information you have about the ad (ideally the ad number), the email address of the advertiser and reasons why you believe you suspect the ad breaches 1Trade’s policies. We can then review the information and decide if we can take the ad down with the information provided. You should also report suspicious ads to your local RSPCA Inspectorate.
   
   
7. A puppy/kitten farm (also known as a puppy/kitten factory or mill) is an intensive dog or cat breeding facility that is operated under inadequate conditions that fail to meet the animals’ behavioural, social and/or physiological needs. Puppy/kitten farms are usually large-scale commercial operations, but inadequate conditions may also exist in small volume breeding establishments which may or may not be run for profit.
   
   
8. See the following links for more information:
   
   
   • What is a puppy farm?
     
     
   • How do I find a good dog or cat breeder?
     
     
   • Is there a safe way to look for a pet online?
     
     
   • What are some red flags when looking for a pet online?
     
     
9. Breeding animals and their litters on puppy/kitten farms live in appalling conditions. Dogs and cats are often kept in overcrowded and filthy environments. Breeding animals may be confined permanently in small cages, never being allowed out for a walk, to go to the toilet in a separate space, play or express normal behaviours.
   
   
10. When looking for a pet online it’s important to meet the breeder or seller, and especially important to meet the pet, before you agree to anything. Since 1Trade is local to your community, this should be easy to arrange.
    
    
11. Never adopt/buy a pet from someone who is unwilling to let you see how and where the animal is living!
    
    
12. If you are searching for a pet on 1Trade, either via responding to posted ads or by posting your own ‘wanting to adopt/buy’ ad on the site, here are some tips and guidelines:
    
    
    • Visit the pet seller’s home or place where the animal was bred to see how they raise and care for their animals. If the seller is a breeder and will not allow you to meet at least the mother of a puppy or kitten this is a major warning sign – find another breeder as this means they probably have something to hide.
      
      
    • Many unethical sellers buy animals from puppy/kitten mills and similar sources/or run a puppy/kitten mill themselves but pass them off as home-raised. If you’re buying, or responding to a “free to good home” offer from an individual who is not a breeder, ask for as much information as possible about the animal’s history in terms of source, health records, and behaviour information – and also make sure you visit the place where they house the animal to check the living conditions.
      
      
    • Get references, including other customers and the seller’s veterinarian. Check them out and be vigilant to ensure that the pet is in good health.
      
      
    • Get all health guarantees and other promises in writing. You should be given veterinary documentation confirming the animal has received a vet health check.
      
      
13. If you are interested in a particular breed of dog, be aware that different breeds are predisposed to different inherited diseases. Some dogs have also been bred for a particular ‘look’, resulting in exaggerated features that can lead to serious health problems. See the online RSPCA Smart Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide, What animal welfare problems are associated with pedigree dog breeding and RSPCA Smart Kitten and Cat Buyer’s Guide for more details.
    
    
    • Adopt/buy from sellers who live in your area. Never allow a seller to transport the animal to you – always first visit the seller and make sure the housing conditions are of a high standard. If it’s a puppy or kitten make sure the mother dog/cat is happy and healthy.
      
      
    • Avoid sellers located outside your local 1Trade city. Never send money outside Australia no matter where the seller says the animal is located.
      
      
14. For further information on how to spot and avoid puppy or kitten farms/mills and further tips on finding a good breeder you can also refer to RSPCA’s guide for Smart Puppy buyers here.
    
    
15. If you are advertising your pet on 1Trade, here are some tips and guidelines:
    
    
    • Advertise through friends, neighbours, and local veterinarians and contact your local RSPCA for advice first; then try 1Trade. Your chances of finding a good home are increased when you check references with someone you know.
      
      
    • Visit the prospective new home in order to get a feel for the environment in which your pet will be living. Explain that the pet is part of your family and that you want to make sure he or she will be properly cared for. Screen potential homes and buyers/adopters very carefully.
      
      
    • Don’t be fooled. If anyone refuses to allow you to visit their home, do not place your pet with them. Individuals known as “bunchers” routinely answer “free-to-good-home” ads, posing as people who want family pets when, in actual fact, they sell pets to animal dealers. Dogfighters have also been known to obtain domestic animals for baiting through “free-to-good-home” ads. These people are professionals who may even bring children or their mothers with them when picking up pets. Individuals may also try to breed from undesexed ‘free to good home’ animals or they may be animal hoarders.
      
      
    • Always be mindful of your own safety when you go to interview potential adopters/buyers or if you allow a prospective adopter/buyer to enter your home. Always have a friend or family member with you.
      
      
    • Carefully consider all the elements of the new home: Will the person be able to meet all of your pet’s needs and give them a good quality of life? Will your pet get along with small children? Will your pet be treated as a pet and loved as part of the family? How will your pet be housed? Will they be able to meet all of your pet’s physical, social and behavioural needs? Does the family have a veterinary reference and a veterinary clinic they go to? Don’t be shy about asking questions. Your pet’s life and happiness depend on it. You want to ensure your pet will be treated as part of the family.
      
      
    • Ask for a valid form of photo identification including a street address (preferably a driver’s license). Record the number for your records and require the new owner to sign a contract stating the requirements of adoption upon which both parties agree. As part of the contract, require the new owner to contact you if he or she decides at some point that they must give up the pet.
      
      
    • Have your pet desexed (neutered or spayed) before he or she goes to the new home. This will make the animal more adoptable and help stop irresponsible breeding.
      
      
    • If your pet is chronically ill or has behavioural problems, it may be difficult to find him a suitable home. A new owner may not be willing or able to deal with these issues, and it may also be difficult for the pet to adjust to a new home. The decision to humanely euthanize such a pet should not be made without thoughtful input from a veterinarian, a behaviourist, and the family, based on ensuring the welfare of the animal at all times.
      
      
16. Finding a quality home for your pet can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Remember: Your local animal shelter has qualified staff trained to screen and counsel adopters. Relinquishing your pet to your local shelter may be the best option for you and your pet.
    
    
17. Preparing your home for a new arrival… see the RSPCA Australia knowledgebase for tips on preparing for a new pet. If your new pet is a dog, also see the online RSPCA Smart Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide for detailed information about ‘Preparing for a pet dog’ and ‘Caring for your pet dog’.
    
    
18. For new pets that are cats and kittens, see the following RSPCA articles:
    
    
    • How should I introduce a new cat or kitten to my existing cat?
      
      
    • How can I help my cat adjust to a new home?
      
      
    • How should I introduce my new cat or kitten to the family dog?
      
      
    • How can I keep my cat safe and happy at home?
      
      
19. Moving to a new home may be stressful to your pet. So be patient and understanding and provide lots of affection. Here are some pointers to help you settle in safely and sanely.
    
    
20. Safety – Make your new home safe for all pets by being mindful of hazards that could:
    1. poison – such as cleansers, insect sprays and pesticides, medications, chocolate, certain plants, and antifreeze (ethylene glycol).
       
       
    2. burn – such as plugged-in appliances, boiling liquids, open flames.
       
       
    3. electrocute – such as worn lamp cords, or any other cords.
       
       
    4. strangle, choke, or obstruct breathing – such as small balls, sewing thread and needles, pantyhose, and bones.
       
       
    5. topple or crush – such as precariously placed appliances, top-heavy filing cabinets, and lamps.
       
       
    6. allow escape or theft – such as loose screens and inadequate fences. Never leave your pet unattended on a balcony or chained in a yard.

VETERINARY CARE

1. As soon as possible, choose a veterinarian and veterinary hospital and take a practice drive to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Trying to find it when you really need it can waste precious time. Also, learn basic pet first aid.
   
   
2. Before getting a pet it’s important to consider if you will have the following;
   
   
   • Time to look after a pet. Pets take up a considerable amount of time, make sure you have enough time each day to interact, care, exercise, socialise, feed and provide company and attention to your pet.
     
     
   • Finances – pets are an expensive addition to the family. Make sure you will be able to afford the upfront costs and ongoing costs of food, grooming, equipment and veterinary care. Are you financially prepared for any unforeseen veterinary emergencies?
     
     
   • Appropriate housing situation now and into the future – do you have suitable housing for a new pet? Are you allowed to keep pets at your place? If you have to move house will you be able to take your pet with you? If you have to go away, either travelling or if you’re sick or injured – who will look after your pet for you? See RSPCA Australia knowledgebase and the online RSPCA Smart Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide for more details.
     
     
   • Compatible Lifestyle. It is important to consider whether your lifestyle is compatible with caring for a pet. Working hours, a busy social life and taking regular trips away from home are all factors that need to be considered before becoming a pet owner.
     
     
3. There are many more things to consider and research before getting a pet, see the RSPCA Australia knowledgebase and the online RSPCA Smart Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide for more information.

DOG CARE ESSENTIALS

1. Ideally, your dog’s introduction to his new home will be with familiar furniture already in place, including his bed and crate, toys, and food and water bowls. If you must be away from home for many hours each day, look into an experienced and trustworthy pet-sitter/dog walker or consider dog day care, make sure you do your research first to ensure the safety and quality of the care your dog will receive.
   
   
2. Your dog gives you a lifetime of unconditional love, loyalty, and friendship. In return, she counts on you to provide her with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, exercise, companionship, and more. Take care of these ten essentials, and you’ll be guaranteed to develop a rewarding relationship with your canine companion.
   
   
   • As well as having your dog microchipped, outfit your dog with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address, and telephone number. No matter how careful you are there’s a chance your companion may become lost – an ID tag greatly increases the chance that your pet will be returned home safely.
     
     
   • Follow local laws for licensing/registering your dog. Check with your local animal shelter or humane society for information regarding legal requirements, where to obtain tags, and where to have your pet vaccinated.
     
     
   • Follow this simple rule – off property, on leash. Even a dog with a valid license and ID tag should not be allowed to roam outside of your home or fenced yard. It is best for you, your community, and your dog to keep your pet under control at all times.
     
     
   • Give your dog proper shelter. A fenced yard with a warm, dry and comfortable doghouse is a bonus, especially for large and active dogs; however, dogs should never be left outside alone or for extended periods of time. Dogs need and crave companionship and should spend most of their time inside with their family. Dogs should not be tethered.
     
     
   • Take your dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and follow the veterinarian’s advice about vaccinating your dog. If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter or a pet owning friend for a referral.
     
     
   • Spay or neuter your dog. Dogs that have this routine surgery tend to live longer, be healthier, and have fewer problem behaviours (e.g., biting, running away). By spaying or neutering your dog, you are also doing your part to reduce the problem of pet overpopulation.
     
     
   • Give your dog a good quality nutritionally balanced diet, including constant access to clean fresh water. Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet.
     
     
   • Enrol your dog in a training class. Positive reward based training will allow you to control your companion’s behaviour safely and humanely, and the experience offers a terrific opportunity to enhance the bond you share with your dog. Negative or punishment based training should never be used.
     
     
   • Give your dog enough exercise to keep him physically fit (but not exhausted). Most dog owners find that playing with their canine companion, along with walking him twice a day, provides sufficient exercise. If you have questions about the level of exercise appropriate for your dog, consult your veterinarian.
     
     
   • Be loyal and patient with your faithful companion. Make sure the expectations you have of your dog are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behavioural problems can be solved. If you are struggling with your pet’s behaviour, contact your veterinarian or local animal shelter for advice.
     
     
3. For further information on how to spot and avoid puppy farms/mills and tips on finding a good breeder you can also refer to RSPCA’s guide for Smart Puppy buyers here. For other tips on caring for your pet RSPCA has great in on their site here.

CAT CARE ESSENTIALS

1. Although your cat may act independent and be litter-trained, he still counts on you to provide him with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, companionship, love, and more. Take care of these ten essentials, and you’ll be guaranteed to develop a rewarding relationship with your feline companion.
   
   
2. For the first few days in your new home, it’s smart to confine your cat to one room, while you work on putting the rest of the place in order. Prepare the room with your cat’s bed, litter box, food and water bowls, and toys.
   
   
3. Now is the perfect time to make your cat an indoor-only pet. Indoor-only cats live longer and healthier lives. Resist attempts by your cat to go outdoors. If your cat hasn’t established an outdoor territory, he or she is less likely to be interested in going outside. Ensuring that your cat has everything he/she needs to have a happy and enriched life inside will help, see this article for more information. Accessories such as window perches can ease the transition. If you play with your cat and supply lots of attention, your cat should have all he or she needs indoors.
   
   
   1. As well as having your cat microchipped, outfit your cat with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address, and telephone number. No matter how careful you are there’s a chance your companion may become lost – an ID tag greatly increases the chance that your cat will be returned home safely.
      
      
   2. Follow local cat registration laws where these exist, see the following RSPCA article which provides state by state breakdowns. Registration and identification system administered by some local governments protects both cats and people in the community.
      
      
   3. Keep your cat indoors or confined to your property using a secure outdoor area. Keeping your cat safely confined at all times is best for you, your pet, and your community.
      
      
   4. Take your cat to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and follow the veterinarian’s advice about vaccinating your cat. If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter or a pet-owning friend for a referral.
      
      
   5. Spay or neuter your pet. This will keep her healthier and will reduce the problem of cat overpopulation.
      
      
   6. Give your cat a good quality nutritionally balanced diet, including constant access to clean fresh water. Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet or refer to the following RSPCA articles, ‘Do cats have special nutritional requirements?’ ‘What should I feed my cat?‘ Feed multiple small meals a day and use feeding toys and puzzle feeders to make meal times more fun and stimulating for your cat.
      
      
   7. Train your cat to refrain from undesirable behaviours such as scratching furniture and jumping on countertops. Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained with a bit of patience, effort, and understanding on your part.
      
      
   8. Groom your cat often to keep her coat healthy, soft, and shiny. Although it is especially important to brush long-haired cats to prevent their hair from matting, even short-haired felines need to be groomed to remove as much loose hair as possible. When cats groom themselves, they ingest a great deal of hair, which often leads to hairballs.
      
      
   9. Set aside time to play with your cat. While cats do not need the same level of exercise that dogs do, enjoying regular play sessions with your pet will provide him with the physical exercise and mental stimulation he needs, as well as strengthen the bond you share.
      
      
   10. Be loyal to and patient with your cat. Make sure the expectations you have of your companion are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behavioural problems can be solved. If you are struggling with your pet’s behaviour, contact your veterinarian or local animal shelter for advice.
       
       
4. For further information on how to care for your cat you can also refer to RSPCA’s knowledgebase here.

WILDLIFE TRADE & PROTECTED SPECIES

1. The trade of protected species (native or exotic), and the sale of products made from protected animals or plants, is not allowed on 1Trade. This includes the sale or trade of ivory or ivory products unless they were made before 1 July 1975 (items made before July 1975 are regarded as antiques). Make sure you possess the relevant CITES certificates for the item.
   
   
2. 1Trade takes this matter very seriously and any ads found to be in breach of the EPBC Act or CITES and reported to us for breaching these regulations will be removed from 1Trade. 1Trade is a community site and we rely on your feedback to help shape the site and keep it friendly, safe, up to date and relevant for everyone. While the vast majority of users have great success transacting with others, from time to time we do receive reports of people attempting to sell/trade in illegal products. 1Trade does not allow international trade. All transactions via 1Trade should take place locally and in person.
   
   
3. 1Trade works closely with regulators and law enforcement when they investigate the trade of illegal products by providing ad information and/or user details when they are requested.

Things you should know

1. An endangered or protected plant or animal is a species that will likely become extinct. The rules (and penalties) in Australia aimed at protecting endangered species by forbidding trade, hunting, etc, are much stricter than most other countries. The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 explains that the protection and management of important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places is a matter of national environmental significance. Under the Act, wildlife is classified as not just live animals, it is any whole part or derivative of a plant or animal either living or non living, for example, wood, seeds, insects, leather, fur, pills/medicines, teeth, meat, faeces, live plants, fresh or dried flowers. View the list of threatened animal and plant species at Australian list of CITES species.
   
   
2. CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is also enforceable in Australia under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. CITES places species into three appendices based on their conservation status:
   
   
   • Appendix I (trade is prohibited because of the danger of extinction) includes (but is not limited to):
     
     
     • great apes, lemurs, the giant panda, many South American monkeys, great whales, cheetah, leopards, tiger, elephants, rhinoceroses, many birds of prey, some cranes, pheasants and parrots, all sea turtles, some crocodiles and lizards, giant salamanders, and some mussels, orchids, cycads and cacti.
       
       
   • Appendix II (trade is strictly regulated to protect from future extinction)
     
     
   • Appendix III (species that are protected in at least one country that has asked other CITES parties for help in controlling trade)
     
     
     • Trade in Appendix II or Appendix III species to/from Australia requires both a CITES export and import permit issued by CITES management authorities.
       
       
     • If the Appendix III specimen comes from any other country (i.e. not the listing country), a CITES certificate of origin must be obtained. These documents must be obtained from the CITES management authority in the country of export and import.
       
       
   • A comprehensive database of every CITES species is available on the CITES International website.
     
     
   • In addition to the national laws, every Australian state and territory has its own list of specimens that they will or will not allow within its borders so before trading in these products, you should also check your home state or territory laws.
     
     
   • If you want to buy/sell a protected animal or plant species you can find some useful information here.

PENALTIES

1. The trade of protected species (native or exotic), and the sale of products made from protected animals or plants, is not allowed on 1Trade.
   
   
2. You should be extremely cautious when buying plant or animal products online. If a product made from CITES listed plant or animal products is sent to you from overseas and is not accompanied by the proper permits, it may be seized by Customs and you could face severe penalties (up to 10 years imprisonment a $110,000 fine). You can download a full list of species that are not allowed to be imported at checklist.cites.org.

PROTECTED ANIMALS AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS POLICY

1. 1Trade does not allow the sale or trade of products containing plants or animal derivatives that are listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
   
   
2. The international movement of wildlife and wildlife products is regulated under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Ads that breach the wildlife protection laws and that are reported to us will be removed from the site.

IVORY

1. 1Trade does not permit the sale or trade of ivory or ivory products unless they were made before 1 July 1975 (items made before July 1975 are regarded as antiques). Make sure you possess the relevant CITES certificates for the item.

LAWS AND REGULATIONS

1. Australia has strict regulations about the trade and possession of protected animals, animal products and plants. The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act) is the Australian Government’s legal framework for the protection and management of important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places — defined in the EPBC Act as matters of national environmental significance.
   
   
2. CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is also enforceable in Australia under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
   
   
3. CITES places species into three categories (appendices) based on their conservation status and their risk from trade. The three CITES appendices are combined into a single list in Australia called “The guide to the list of CITES species”. This list clearly identifies the conditions or restrictions that apply to each specimen, the appendix under which it has been listed and the date of listing. A comprehensive database of every CITES species is available on the CITES International website.
   
   
4. Any ads found to be in breach of the EPBC Act or CITES and reported to us for breaching these regulations will be removed from 1Trade.

For further information on the Australian and international regulations for wildlife trade please see;

• Australian Government ‘Wildlife Trade Regulation’
• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
• Australian list of CITES species
• CITES.org

BUYING AND SELLING LIVESTOCK

1. Animal welfare is an important issue to us here at 1Trade, and it’s important to us that all animals are traded responsibly, safely and successfully.
   
   
2. We operate under a report and take down policy, where you may use the ‘Report Ad’ function to flag any potentially concerning listing that breaches 1Trade’s policies or terms of use.
   
   
3. We also encourage you to report listings which are contrary to applicable laws to the appropriate authorities to be investigated. This includes livestock being kept in conditions which are contrary to relevant laws and rabbits being kept in conditions which are not in accordance with the Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals – Intensive Husbandry of Rabbits.
   
   

REQUIREMENTS FOR BUYING AND SELLING LIVESTOCK ON 1TRADE – APPLICABLE TO ALL STATES/TERRITORIES OF AUSTRALIA

1. Purchasing livestock
   
   
   • If you are purchasing livestock which are to be kept on your property, you must have a Property Identification Code (PIC), whether you keep them for production, personal use or as pets, or provide pasture for others to agist their livestock. PICs are critical in enabling animals to be traced to specific properties in the event of a disease outbreak, chemical residue problem or in a natural disaster.
     
     
   • ‘Livestock’ usually means 1 horse, 1 cow, 1 sheep, 1 goat, 1 pig etc. or between 1 and 100 poultry (e.g. chicken, turkeys, ducks, pigeons or quails), and includes other animals in some states/territories such as deer and alpaca.
     
     
   • Some state and territory requirements differ so find out your state’s PIC requirements and apply for a PIC through the relevant office (State contacts provided below).
     
     
   • Non-compliance may carry hefty fines from the relevant State offices.
     
     
2. Movement of stock
   
   
   • When cattle, sheep or goats are moved from one property to another (e.g. after being sold) they must be identified with an approved device (National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) device or tag), have a movement document with them and the movement onto or off your property must be recorded on the NLIS database. Contact your state/territory office for further details.
     
     
   • Similarly, when pigs are moved from one property to another, they must be identified with an NLIS ear tag and/or registered brand/tattoo depending on their weight.
     
     
   • A PigPass National Vendor Declaration (PigPass NVD) form must be completed when you move pigs from your property and all pig movements must be recorded in the PigPass database. Contact your state/territory office for further details.
     
     
   • Movement documents include:
     
     
     • National Vendor Declaration (NVD)/Waybill: This is used when stock are sold to processors or to saleyards and can be used for other property to property movements with a different PIC. Register with Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) to obtain an NVD through their website or by phone at 1800 683 111.
       
       
     • Transported Stock Statement (TSS) or Waybill: This is used in some states when transporting certain stock between different properties.
       PigPass NVD: This must accompany all pigs when they move. PigPass is available from Australian Pork.
       
       
     • Animal Health Declarations: Sheep or Cattle Health Declarations may be required when transporting sheep or cattle interstate, and for some jurisdictions within state (e.g. South Australia).
       
       
3. General Animal Health
   
   
   • Be aware of the health of the animals when deciding to buy. Sometimes diseased stock are bought by unsuspecting buyers. These may put your own stock, neighbouring animals or even your own health at risk.
     
     
   • When buying livestock, it is recommended that you request an Animal Health Declaration from the seller. These declarations provide valuable information about the disease status of the animals and the treatments and vaccinations that they have received. The Farm Biosecurity website has forms available for a number of livestock species (cattle, sheep, goats, and alpacas). There are significant animal welfare concerns for diseased stock being transported or not treated appropriately.
     
     
   • Contact your local veterinarian or government veterinarian for advice before buying any animal. If you have bought any animals that get sick or die soon after purchase, ensure you call a veterinarian to obtain advice.
     
     
4. Fit to load
   
   
   • You must ensure that animals are fit to load before being transported. They should not be moved if they are completely blind, unable to walk normally, in late stage pregnancy, are severely emaciated or dehydrated or are suffering from severe visible distress or injury (broken bones, cancers, open wounds). Check the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Land Transport or see the ‘Is it fit to load?‘ guide for more information.
     
     
5. State contacts
   1. NSW: Local Land Services
      
      
   2. QLD: The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
      
      
   3. Victoria: Agriculture Victoria
      
      
   4. South Australia: Primary Industries and Regions South Australia
      
      
   5. ACT: Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate – Environment
      
      
   6. Northern Territory: The Department of Primary Industry and Resources
      
      
   7. Western Australia: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
      
      
   8. Tasmania: The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment

Note: These policies are not an exhaustive list of the laws and regulations that apply in your State. It is your responsibility to ensure that your ad complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

Contact each jurisdiction to learn the specific requirements of that state or territory (or links to their webpages about livestock movements can be found at www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/what-we-do/endemic-disease/livestock-movements/).

Pets Policy updated 4 March 2021