The Borzoi Club of America Code of Ethics

Members of BCOA pledge to abide by the Code of Ethics:

The purpose of this Code is to set forth principles of practice that the BCOA Board would like to have members adhere to as they strive to preserve the quality of the breed. The Code represents the minimum in ethical practices. To this end, the member agrees:

  1. To abide by and uphold the principles of the Constitution and By-Laws of the Borzoi Club of America, Inc.
  2. To understand and abide by all Rules and Regulations of the American Kennel Club.
  3. To accept and breed only to the Standard of the breed as set forth by the BCOA and approved by the American Kennel Club, striving always to maintain the highest quality for the breed as outlined by the Standard.
  4. To accept and breed only to the Standard of the breed as set forth by the BCOA and approved by the American Kennel Club, striving always to maintain the highest quality for the breed as outlined by the Standard.
  5. To require that any agent, employee or other person acting on behalf of the member comply with all principles outlined in this Code of Ethics and Guidelines.
  6. To provide the best possible environment for the physical and emotional well-being of the dogs including fully complying with local laws governing health inoculations, curbing of animals, and restraint and control of their actions on and off their home premises.
  7. To put the welfare of each dog above personal gain, profit and/or personal convenience, remembering that each dog (purchased, bred or sold) is a lifetime responsibility.
  8. To make every effort to assist the novice and educate the public regarding the Borzoi and provide accurate information as to their general upkeep, the maintenance of their well being, grooming and training needs.
  9. To strive always to behave in a sportsmanlike manner and refrain from misleading and false advertising, maligning or giving false statements regarding dogs, breeding practices and BCOA members.
  10. To support ethical trade practices and sell only to responsible persons. To avoid at all cost the wholesaling of litters of Borzoi puppies, or the sale of breeding stock or individuals to pet shops or other commercial sources of distribution and never to provide dogs for the purpose of raffle, lottery, or auction.

Nothing in this Code of Ethics should be construed to be in violation of the Rules and Regulations of the American Kennel Club or the Constitution and By-Laws of the Borzoi Club of America, Inc.