ESA Members Code of Ethics

The following is a set of guidelines for the care of English Setters. They are regarded as good practice and by joining the ESA, all Members are expected to abide by these standards:-

1. Members will properly house, feed, water, exercise and groom all dogs under their care and arrange for appropriate veterinary attention if and when required.
2. Members will not allow any of their dogs to roam at large or to cause a nuisance to neighbours or those carrying out official duties.
3. Members will ensure that their dogs shall wear properly tagged collars and shall be kept fully leashed or under effective control when away from home.
4. Members will clean up after their dogs in public places or anywhere their dogs are being exhibited.
5. Members will agree without reservation that any Veterinary Surgeon or Orthodontist operating on any of their dogs which alters the natural conformation of the animal may report such operation to the Kennel Club.
6. Members agree not to undertake breeding which in any way is deleterious to the stock involved or the breed in general.
7. Members agree only to sell puppies and old dogs where there is a reasonable expectation of a happy and healthy life and will help with the rehoming of a dog if the initial circumstances change.
8. Members will provide written details of all dietary requirements and give guidance concerning responsible ownership when placing dogs in a new home.
9. Members will not knowingly sell any dog for resale to commercial dog wholesalers, retail pet dealers or directly or indirectly allow dogs to be given as a prize or donation in a competition of any kind.
10. Members will not knowingly misrepresent the characteristics of the breed nor falsely advertise dogs nor mislead any person regarding the quality of the dog.
11. Members will ensure that all relevant Kennel Club documents are provided as soon as possible to the new owner when selling or transferring a dog including a copy of this Code. Such documents are taken to include:
    • The Kennel Club Registration Certificate.
    • The pedigree of the dog or bitch, at least three generations.
    • The KC/BVA Hip Scores of the parents.
    • Confirmation that a puppy has been wormed and when the next worming is due.
    • A diet sheet in accordance with 8 above.