DPCNA Code of Conduct

The mission of the Dales Pony Conservancy North America (the “DPCNA” or “Society”) is to support the Dales Pony population in North American by:

· Educating the North American community about the Dales Pony. 

· Sharing the Dales Pony with the world through social media and exhibiting.

· Supporting registration of ponies with the Dales Pony Society in the United Kingdom.

· Supporting breeders who focus on maintaining the Dales Pony as the ‘Great Allrounder’ by breeding easy keeping, hearty, kind, intelligent and versatile ponies who can put a hoof to all endeavors, but is to each of us, a being of great heart and depth.  

· Maintaining an unofficial consistently updated database of Dales Ponies in North America which we regularly share with the Dales Pony Society to help the mother registry accuracy.

· Providing a network of 'safe homes' for Dales Ponies whose owners are unable to care for them, and assisting in rehoming efforts where needed, which allow these ponies to be owner transferred with DPS and not be 'lost' to the breed.

The DPCNA board will strive to achieve excellent leadership through: 

· Open communication with transparency of decisions made regarding the Society or activities sponsored by the Society.

· Responsiveness when a participant reaches out to the DPCNA board.

· Confidentiality for participants, ensuring that information is not disclosed to the public unless explicitly understood by the participant.

· Disclosure of conflicts of interest of the DPCNA board members with respect to interactions including advice provided on a one-on-one basis, as an expert panel on webinars, and in social media posts on behalf of DPCNA.

The DPCNA focuses on working in a transparent, responsible, and ethical manner for all activities and interactions. This Code of Conduct outlines the manner in which the DPCNA board, all Society members, and third-party vendors working with the Society should conduct themselves including the following behaviors: personal integrity; an environment conducive to open dialogue; no harassment or bullying; and support diversity and inclusion. Any violation of this Code of Conduct will be subject to disciplinary sanctions.

Personal Integrity

Each participant is expected to be respectful, honest, and reasonable in all interactions with the Society and other participants. The DPCNA will not tolerate intentional dishonesty, abuse, or fraud in any interactions with the Society, participants, or interactions with the general public with respect to the Dales Pony breed in North America. 

Support of Open Dialogue

The DPCNA encourages open and honest dialogue among Participants to support an environment conducive to education, growth, and support of the Society’s mission. All Participants are encouraged to ask questions, raise issues, and share their opinion without fear of retaliation. These discussions and communications are encouraged and welcomed, but must remain respectful at all times.

No Harassment and Bullying

The DPCNA will not tolerate any form of harassment or bullying, including but not limited to physical actions of any nature, intimidating verbal or written communications, or intentional physical or emotional behavior that hurts, harms, or humiliates a Participant or creates a hostile environment. 

Inclusiveness and Diversity

The DPCNA recognizes that each Participant has a different background, knowledge, and strengths. We support and value this diversity and balance it brings to the knowledge within the Society.

Reporting violations

Any Participant is encouraged to contact DPCNA directly with questions or concerns about compliance with any of the policies listed above. If a Participant is unsure about how to conduct themselves in a manner that adheres to this Code of Conduct, we strongly encourage you to first talk with one of the Co-Chairs of the DPCNA. Your communications will be handled confidentially and without retaliation. 

Disciplinary Sanctions

Participants found in violation of the Code of Conduct shall be investigated by the Board of the DPCNA. Pending the final determination of the investigation, the Participant may be subject to one or more of the following disciplinary actions:

1. Private censure/reprimand.

2. Public censure/reprimand.

3. Expulsion or suspension from DPCNA membership.

4. Removal from all or part of DPCNA social media platforms.

5. Removal or forfeiture of awards or other recognition related to DPCNA membership.