19.08.08
The RSPCA has issued a response to the BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed. The programme is due to be shown on BBC One at 9pm on Tuesday, 19 August.
Hundreds of thousands of dogs are vulnerable to illness, pain and discomfort because they're primarily bred for how they look rather than with health, welfare and temperament in mind, the RSPCA said today.
The Society is extremely concerned about the unacceptably high levels of disability, deformity and hereditary disease affecting pedigree dogs, and hopes the BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed will spark a national debate.
RSPCA chief vet Mark Evans, who was interviewed for the programme, said: "The welfare and quality of life of many pedigree dogs is seriously compromised by established breeding practices for appearance, driven primarily by the rules and requirements of competitive dog showing and pedigree dog registration."
The Society believes the intensive breeding of closely related dogs for anything other than scientifically proven welfare reasons is morally unjustifiable. Furthermore, health, welfare and temperament must be prioritised over appearance.
"All those who benefit from pedigree dogs have a collective responsibility to put aside vested interests and work together to ensure the health and welfare of the pedigree dog is protected," said Mr Evans.
"Public attitude also needs to change so that the most desirable dogs are those which are fit, healthy and well suited to the life they lead. Pedigree dogs need our help, and they need it now."
The RSPCA is advising concerned pedigree dog owners to visit their vet for advice. Anyone thinking of buying a pedigree dog should do thorough research, speak to a local vet about potential problems they may have to deal with and not base their decision on appearance alone.
Mr Evans added: "This is a man-made problem that needs an urgent man-made solution, so let's work together and become the generation that's remembered for saving the pedigree dog."
For more information about pedigree dogs see the RSPCA's Q&A. Download it here or at the bottom of the page. RSPCA pedigree dogs Q&A (PDF 37.7KB).
Always consider adopting an unwanted dog. Crossbreeds and pedigrees in need of good new homes are always available from rescue centres like those run by the RSPCA.
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RSPCA pedigree dogs Q&A |
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photo © RSPCA
