CODE OF ETHICS

The Russian Toy Dog Club of America, Inc. (RTDCA, Inc.), requires that all members subscribe to the following Code of Ethics to promote and foster the highest standards among breeders, owners and fanciers. As allowed in the Club's Bylaws, failure to comply with the Club's Code of Ethics shall result in expulsion from the Club. RTDCA, Inc. is an association devoted to the continued protection, betterment, advancement along with welfare of the Russian Toy; the following Code of Ethics is predicated upon this fundamental philosophy.

1. I believe and accept that the protection, betterment, advancement and welfare of the breed as a whole supersedes personal, competitive, or financial reasons for owning a Russian Toy.

2. I accept the Breed Standard, as approved by the FCI, as the current Standards by which Russian Toys shall be bred.

3. I will comply with and maintain current information and records of my Russian Toy as required by RTDCA,Inc.

4. I will demonstrate good sportsmanship by being respectful and courteous in my words and conduct at shows and other events. I will offer encouragement and guidance to interested persons or novices, recognizing that the future of the breed depends upon sharing of accurate and knowledgeable information.

5. I will not knowingly slander or seek to damage the reputation of other owners.

6. I will be honest and factual in all my communications, either written or verbal, as well as in any advertisements or promotion of the Russian Toy. I will honor all written contracts, agreements and guarantees.

7. I will strive to assure good health, sanitary living conditions, and proper nutrition throughout the ownership of my dogs; including following a program of routine veterinary care, seeking medical attention when needed, and educating myself about preventative measures for current medical issues, pertaining both to my location and to the breed in general. I recognize the possibility of euthanasia as one of the responsibilities of dog ownership, and will not tolerate unnecessary suffering or inhumane treatment.

8. I will not knowingly sell or trade dogs to wholesalers, retailers, pet shops, medical research facilities, or agents thereof, or to unethical persons whose intent is questionable to me. I will not offer a Russian Toy (or stud services) in auctions, as prizes, or for raffles.

9. I agree to abide by the RTDCA, Inc. Breeder Code of Ethics. I will not breed Russian Toys with intent of making a profit.

10. I will screen buyers to the best of my abilities to ensure a safe and loving environment, and a life-long relationship with any dog I sell or place.

11. I agree to furnish a description, in writing of any warranties or special considerations regarding the health of any Russian Toy I sell or place, including a guarantee that the animal is free of communicable diseases at the time he or she leaves my control.

12. I agree to breed my Russian Toy only to other Russian Toys which are an asset to the breed, demonstrated by being structurally and temperamentally sound, and displaying no disqualifying faults.Nor will I engage in Breeding or allowing my Purebred Russian Toy to be bred by other breeds to start a new breed or produce a "designer" mix breed .

13. I will breed my Russian Toy only after it has properly matured, and only as often as is consistent with good health under the dictates of sound veterinary standards.

14. I will require the spay or neuter of any puppy which display disqualifying faults, congenital defects, known hereditary defects, poor temperament, or other developments not in the best interest of the breed. An exception may be made if a licensed veterinarian declares that such surgery may needlessly endanger the health of the Russian Toy.

15. I agree to apply for and register all of my eligible Russian Toy dogs and their litters with the Russian Toy Dog Club of America, Inc.(RTDCA,Inc.)

16. I agree if I have a litter that results in any puppies that suffer from any hereditary conditions or exhibits serious divergences from the standard , I will advise the RTDCA,Inc. Secretary so that a record can be maintained and potential health problems monitored or eliminated from the gene pool .

17. RTDCA, Inc. exists to advance and protect the breed and breeding of Russian Toys. The club and its officers serve as volunteers. Neither the club nor its officers are liable for infractions, disputes, health problems or any other issues between puppy buyers and breeders or between owners of Russian Toys and the general public. All breeding, puppy sales and other transactions are to be covered by contracts between the individual parties to the transaction and are not the responsibility of the club nor its officers.

By my signature on this document, I certify that I have read, understand and agree to abide by the Code of Ethics of RTDCA, Inc. I agree to act in accordance with this Code of Ethics at all times and understand that contrary actions may be grounds for severe disciplinary actions, up to and including possible expulsion from RTDCA, Inc.

Signature___________________________________________ Date_________

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