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THE proposed dog breed facility on the outskirts of Bathurst has been labeled as nothing more than a puppy factory by the Animal Justice Party (AJP). Sydney man John Grima hopes to build an $841,000 breeding facility at 1557 Rockley Road, Fosters Valley - about 21 kilometres south of Bathurst. He owns Kellyville Pets at Beaumont Hills in north-west Sydney and is developing the breeding facility to supply pets for sale. Mr Grima has already faced a barrage of criticism from the public who called it a puppy farm, while others said it was located too close to koala ‘feed trees’ on Black Mountain. Now, the AJP has joined the calls to urge Bathurst councillors to knock back the development when it comes before them later this month. AJP state convener Lisa Ryan has two concerns, including that the facility was being used as a commercial operation and it would produce crossbred dogs. “The sole purpose for breeding is to make money. He is a commercial breeder,” she said. “The whole focus of the animals that are imprisoned is to produce pups that are then sold online or in a pet store. “The animals’ physical, emotional or psychological needs are not being facilitated.” Ms Ryan said Mr Grima’s plan to cross breeds, such as French bulldogs and pugs, would result in dogs that were “renowned for issues with breathing”. “We have enough ethical breeders and enough dogs and puppies in need of homes already,” she said. Mr Grima, who has worked in the pet industry for 34 years, previously told the Western Advocate that he was “acutely aware” of people’s concern for animal welfare. He said the 100 hectare block at Fosters Valley would set a new benchmark for the industry in Australia. “It will feature grassed exercise areas, insulated kennels with under-slab heating and socialisation yards,” he said. “There will be on-site grooming facilities and a vet inspection area, as well as a purpose-built temperature controlled whelping facility with monitoring.” Mr Grima said the facility would set new standards for dog breeding in Australia. The AJP will continue its push against the development’s approval by staging a protest outside Kellyville Pets this Saturday, while members will also attend Bathurst council’s meeting later this month.

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