Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club Announce Chair of Independent Review

Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club are pleased to announce that their joint independent review into the registration, breeding and showing of dogs will be Chaired by Professor Sir Patrick Bateson FRS.

Professor Bateson is emeritus Professor of Ethology at Cambridge University and President of the Zoological Society of London. His main research interests are the development and evolution of behaviour and he has written and lectured extensively on animal welfare, developmental biology and genetics. He is also a Parliamentary Advisor.

The review is being set up and funded by Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club but it will operate independently of both organisations. The review has the support of Defra who were involved in the selection of Professor Bateson as Chair. Professor Bateson will independently select other members of the panel who have the appropriate skills and knowledge to assist him with the review. The panel will then ask for evidence from a wide field including animal welfare groups, dog breeders, show representatives, veterinary organisations, universities, scientists and government including devolved administrations.

The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust have called for an independent review into the registration and breeding of dogs since the priority of both organisations is to promote and support the care, welfare and breeding of healthy dogs.

On appointment Professor Bateson said: “I recognise the great importance of this review and the need to consult with a wide range of experts to safeguard the health and welfare of dogs in the future. I am confident that with the existing support, research and interest from the dog world it will be possible to develop practical recommendations that will considerably benefit both pedigree and non-pedigree dogs.”

Jane Kennedy, Minister for Farming and the Environment said: “I welcome the appointment of Professor Pat Bateson as Chair of this important review. I am pleased that both the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust will be working together to support the work and am confident that the outcome will be to the lasting benefit of all dogs.”

Clarissa Baldwin, Chief Executive, Dogs Trust and Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary added: “We are delighted that Professor Bateson is involved with the review. We feel sure that his experience and highly respected research skills will ensure that the recommendations arising from this review of the registration, breeding and showing of dogs will be achievable and well received by everyone concerned with the welfare of dogs.”

It is expected that the review will commence at the beginning of February.

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3. Dogs Trust Withdraws from Crufts and All Kennel Club Events
4. BVA to Collaborate on Bateson Review in to Pedigree Dog Health
5. British Veterinary Association Calls For Breeding Review, Claims ‘Not Enough’ Has Been Done