The Flathead Kennel Club of Montana (FKC) is a nonprofit organization of breeders, fanciers, exhibitors, and trainers dedicated to the advancement of purebred dogs. As such a Code of Ethics has been established to serve as a guide to all members in striving to accomplish the goals and purposes set forth in the constitution and by-laws of the organization. Members of the FKC who violate this code will be expelled from the club according to the Constitution and By-laws, Article VI, Section 4.
- All dogs will be kept in a clean, healthy, and safe environment. Dogs will be provided with socialization and appropriate vaccinations and medical care to provide maximum mental and physical well-being.
- Members will refrain from any activities which would be detrimental to any dog or the Flathead Kennel Club of Montana.
- Members shall at all times display good sportsmanship and conduct, whether it be at home, traveling to shows and events, and at motels and hotels. They will treat all present including competitors, judges, officials and spectators with respect and courtesy. They will not maliciously degrade any fellow club members, their dogs, their breed, or their kennel operation in public or private situations.
- Members will breed only mature, healthy adults that exhibit no disqualifying or serious faults as defined by their breed standard.
- Members attending events such as dog shows, matches, field trials, performance events, etc. must abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the sponsoring club.
- Members will maintain high standards in the health and care of their dogs, always putting the welfare of their dogs above the goals of competition. A dog should be in good health while being trained and exhibited in all facets of competition. No member will knowingly exhibit or expose diseased dogs to others at any competition or in public places.
- Members will not breed for sale or consignment, or give puppies or adults to auctions or raffles, to pet shops, catalogues houses, or brokers for resale purposes or research. Members shall not purchase puppies from brokers for resale or breeding purposes.
- Members are strongly encouraged to join their individual breed clubs and be familiar with the breed standard, genetic screening recommendations, and code of ethics for these clubs.
- Members will conscientiously plan each litter primarily considering the betterment of the breed. No member shall purposely breed or sell a dog that cannot be registered with AKC.
- Members should, to the best of their ability, place puppies only in homes where the owners understand and are prepared to undertake their commitment of responsible dog ownership for the life of the dog. Members are strongly encouraged to include a breeder “welcome home” clause in their contracts that spells out the terms for taking back dogs bred by them.
- Dogs/puppies sold must be guaranteed to be in healthy condition at the time of sale, including adequate protection from common canine diseases. Breeders should retain accurate health records.
- Members will use a spay/neuter contract or limited registration in the sale of pet puppies.
- Breeders shall be familiar with AKC rules concerning record keeping, registration, and sale and transfer of dogs and abide by those rules.
- Members are encouraged to keep abreast of AKC information on all facets of dog ownership and competition.
- Members are urged to foster friendship and offer educational advice to newcomers, novices, and the general public.
- Members are not to engage in false or misleading advertising.
I/We understand the FKC Code of Ethics as stated above and agree to abide by it.