The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is calling for better enforcement and regulation of dog breeding and selling following the broadcasting of two hard-hitting documentaries this week.
Investigations by BBC Panorama and Disclosure, broadcast on Monday January 23, revealed the links between organised crime and the breeding of dogs with extreme features, such as American and French bulldogs. The two documentaries showed how the growing popularity of the breeds has led criminal gangs to resort to cruel and dangerous breeding practices. The investigation also showed the impact of extreme breeding on the health and welfare of dogs, including links to the recent spike in unregulated canine fertility clinics and the trend for cropping dogs’ ears for fashion.
Responding to the investigations, BVA senior vice president Justine Shotton said: “It is horrific to see unscrupulous individuals breeding dogs to meet the demands of fashion without any consideration for the health or welfare of the animals. Sadly, this BBC investigation doesn’t come as a surprise to vets and animal welfare organisations.
“BVA has long raised concerns about irresponsible breeding and its links to unregulated canine fertility clinics and illegal ear cropping. This investigation is a wake-up call to government to take urgent action to protect the welfare of these animals by introducing regulation for fertility clinics as well as banning the importation of dogs with cropped ears through the Kept Animals Bill. Such a ban would close the legal loophole that allows this trend to continue despite the procedure being illegal in the UK.”
She also urged the public to carry out careful research before acquiring a new pet, such as by accessing the organisation’s Puppy Contract. BVA is also calling on vets and members of the public to download its template letter regarding the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill and send it to their local MP, urging them to call on the Government to ensure its passge through Parliament.
Shotton added: “Responsible pet ownership begins even before you get a puppy, so we’d encourage anyone looking to buy a dog to pick health over looks or the latest fashion and always speak to your vet for advice. Use the free Puppy Contract to help guide you on the questions you should be asking a breeder, to ensure you’re getting a healthy, happy puppy from a responsible source. We encourage people to report concerns around dogs with cropped ears and unregulated fertility clinics to their local government authority.”
