HPCA Code of Ethics
The Hungarian Pumi Club of America has established the
following Code of Ethics to be followed by HPCA members in the course of owning, exhibiting, judging, breeding and selling Pumik. In situations not falling clearly within the parameters set forth below, the HPCA is guided by the spirit, rather than the letter of the Code in all situations.
HPCA MEMBERS SHALL:
- Abide by the Hungarian Pumi Club of America Constitution and Bylaws.
- Support and abide by the AKC standard for the Pumi.
- Abide by AKC rules and regulations where applicable including the “AKC Code of Sportsmanship”.
- Respect and preserve the unique characteristics of the Pumi and its history.
- Maintain the highest standards possible for the health and welfare of the Pumi in your care.
- Practice and promote responsible dog ownership including the conduct and control of your Pumi in public places.
- Never abandon or dispose of a Pumi in a shelter, pound or rescue. Always contact the breeder to enlist their support in finding proper placement.
- Conduct oneself in a manner that reflects favorably upon the HPCA, the Pumi breed and the Dog Fancy.
HPCA MEMBER BREEDERS SHALL ALSO:
- Be fully familiar with the AKC Standard for the Pumi and evaluate your dog(s) objectively, and breed only to improve the breed, taking conformation, health, temperament, and the breed’s genetic diversity into account.
- Health test all breeding stock before being bred as recommended by the HPCA in conjunction with the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC).
- Assure all breeding stock has an AKC DNA ID.
- Take the utmost care of their breeding stock, particularly bitches and puppies making sure that proper husbandry is applied including but not limited to the finest nutrition, sanitation, exercise, and proper veterinary care.
- Deal honestly, fairly and with transparency with other breeders, purchasers and the general public. Be truthful in advertising and information provided.
- NEVER engage in purposeful cross breeding of the purebred Pumi with other breeds.
- Screen prospective buyers to ascertain their potential to properly care for a Pumi and ability to fulfill Pumi’s mental and physical exercise needs and assure that the new prospective owners understand those requirements.
- Use clear concise contracts to document the sale, the use of stud dogs, and lease arrangements including the use, when appropriate of non-breeding agreements and/or limited registration.
- NEVER sell a Pumi to a wholesaler, commercial retailers, brokers, nor supply dogs for raffles, “give away” prizes or other such projects.
- Provide complete information to owners including pedigree, instructions on feeding, health records, training, grooming, exercise and socialization needs.
- Remain a resource for the puppy owner for the life of the dog. Take back or assist in finding a new home for any dog you produce at any time in its life, if requested to do so.