The Blue Cross Responds to Bateson Inquiry in to Dog Breeding
As a leading animal welfare charity, The Blue Cross sees all too often the effects of irresponsible breeding and works hard to help guide prospective dog owners on choosing a dog.
A report published today by Professor Sir Patrick Bateson of the Zoological Society of London addresses the need to crack down on irresponsible dog breeding practices and tighten breeding standards and health checks in dogs.
The Blue Cross welcomes Professor Sir Patrick Bateson’s ‘Independent Inquiry into Dog Breeding’, which sets out firm recommendations for improving standards for dog breeding in the UK.
Bateson’s recommendation to introduce an Advisory Council on Dog Breeding to develop evidence-based breeding strategies would provide a clear pathway for breeders to improve the health and welfare of all dogs.
The Blue Cross welcomes the Inquiry’s emphasis on the role that animal welfare experts can play in educating the wider public about what to look for when buying a dog. As a charity, The Blue Cross continues to play an active part in providing this guidance to dog owners.
The Blue Cross particularly welcomes the proposed changes to the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which include a statutory Code of Practice on the Breeding of Dogs, a call for all puppies to be microchipped prior to sale and for dog breeders and breed clubs to pay particular regard to avoiding breed specific health problems.
The Blue Cross is pleased that Bateson’s Inquiry acknowledges the need to crack down on irresponsible breeders who pay little or no regard to the health and welfare of dogs used for breeding.
Bateson’s Inquiry rightly highlights a need for The Dangerous Dogs Act to be amended to apply to all dogs that have been shown to be dangerous rather than to specific breeds. The proposed focus on legislating against dog breeders who deliberately breed dogs as weapons or for fighting is a much welcomed move.
The BBC’s ‘Pedigree Dogs Exposed’ documentary into dog breeding in the UK highlighted an urgent need to tackle the health welfare concerns associated with particular breeding practices.
Steve Goody, director of external affairs for The Blue Cross said: “This report is a really positive step towards tackling irresponsible breeding practices and safeguarding the health and welfare of dogs. While any recommendations may take time to implement, the public can play a vital and important role now by making responsible choices when taking on a dog. The Blue Cross is committed to improving public awareness and guiding prospective owners on what to consider when choosing a dog or puppy.”
The Blue Cross offers a guide to choosing a pedigree dog. Click here to read this advice:
Highly Recommended: What dog owner wouldn’t want a piece of THIS action? – Get FREE dog food!
Related posts:
Loading ...