Pedigree animal health and welfare
On this page you can find out more about the BVA view on pedigree animal health and welfare
Background
The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation Discussion Forum is held annually and brings together vets and other interested parties to discuss animal welfare issues.
As a result of the ongoing concerns within the profession about genetically inherited problems within the pedigree dog population, the session 'Designer animals or breeding for welfare?' was included at the Discussion Forum in May 2008.
For the past 40 years the BVA has been working to improve the health and welfare of pedigree dogs through the Canine Health Schemes that are run jointly with The Kennel Club. Currently the schemes examine hips, elbows and eyes for signs of hereditary defects.
BVA's position
Following discussion at our Ethics and Welfare Group we call for an independent review of the breeding of all dogs as well as the permanent identification of all registered pedigree dogs.
What the BVA has done
- since the broadcast of the BBC documentary “Pedigree Dogs Exposed” in August 2008, BVA Officers have met with several stakeholders including CAWC, APGAW, The Kennel Club and the RSPCA
- the BVA Ethics and Welfare Group considered the issues surrounding the subject at its meeting in October 2008
- following this meeting we have briefed the media on our position
- we have submitted evidence to the APGAW and Bateson reviews into the breeding of pedigree dogs
- bringing together a number of animal welfare organisations to form the Dog Breeding Stakeholder Group, the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation has produced guidance on choosing your new dog
- On November 3rd the BVA issues a press release following the publication of the APGAW report on the breeding of Pedigree dogs
Activities of other organisations
- the Bateson report was published in January 2010. The review was initiated and funded by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust.
- FVE is working with other veterinary bodies in Europe to investigate the extent of illegal trafficking of animals. This issue will be discussed further at the FVE General Assembly in November 2009
- APGAW published a report on the breeding of pedigree dogs on the November 3rd.
- the RSPCA published an independent literature review of the known science in this area in early February 2009
- the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW) plans to set up a website to provide advice about breed-related welfare problems to prospective pet owners
What members can do
More information