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Code Of Ethics

Code Of Ethics

Revised February 2004

The CWHWTC recognizes its responsibility to preserve, improve and protect the West Highland White Terrier. It further recognizes that the quality, health, reputation and future of the breed are the responsibility of all members of the CWHWTC whether they be breeders or pet owners. Therefore, the following standards of conduct are to be followed by all members of the CWHWTC:

  1. Members acknowledge that we are a diverse group with varying opinions and therefore are to be respectful of fellow Club members.

  2. All members will be responsible Westie owners, ensuring the well being of the animal as being the first and foremost consideration.

  3. Members will encourage and promote the breeding of purebred Westies. Members who are breeders of the West Highland White Terrier will be familiar with the CKC rules governing record-keeping, registrations, sales, and transfers of dogs and will abide by the rules. Any warranties/contracts pertaining to the sale of a dog will be put in writing with copies for the buyer, seller and CKC, if applicable.  

  4. Members who breed the WHWT will stand behind the quality and health of their stock. If s/he sells a West Highland White Terrier with a known health problem or which deviates from the standard to an extent that could be detrimental to the welfare of the breed; full disclosure of same will be shared with the buyer at the time of purchase. The sale will be conditional that the dog not be bred. Additional contracts for spaying or neutering are to be implemented. CKC non-breeding contracts will apply.  

  5. All breeding will be planned to improve the breed. All breeder/members will be familiar with the standard and will do everything to discourage breeding from inferior specimens. No dogs/bitches exhibiting serious hereditary defects, unsound temperaments, or poor health will be bred.  

  6. If a Westie produces offspring with birth defects or hereditary problems from litters by three different mating partners, the breeder/member will refrain from further use of this animal for breeding.  

  7. No breeder/member will breed a bitch unless s/he has the time and facilities to provide care, nutrition and veterinary attention for the physical/emotional development of the dam and puppies.  

  8. No breeder/member will sell or transfer any puppy or adult to a pet store, catalogue house, puppy farm or wholesale dealer. They will also refuse to provide stud service to any person engaged in the foregoing transactions.

  9. Breeder/members will ensure that all advertising is factual.  Misleading or unfounded implications or criticism of others will not be tolerated.   

  10. Breeders/members will refrain from making unfair or untrue statements about either the West Highland White Terrier or practices of others. 

  11. Members will respond politely to all enquiries from the public concerning the Westie and the CWHWTC.

  12. Good sportsmanship in the conformation/obedience ring/ or any other dog related activity is expected.

  13. Owners of the Westie must constantly practice the utmost diligence in ensuring the safety of the animal throughout its lifetime.

  14. If, for whatever reason, a member (both breeder and/or pet owner) finds  s/he will no longer be able to keep his/her West Highland White Terrier, said West Highland White Terrier will never be abandoned to a shelter or any other such place.  The Breeder/seller shall be advised of the change in circumstances so s/he will be able to help locate an alternative home.   Should this not be possible, the help of the membership at large will be sought.  

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