The two BBC documentaries, broadcast on Monday 23 January, show how the growing popularity of breeds like American and French bulldogs has led criminal gangs to resort to cruel and dangerous breeding practices. The investigation also uncovers 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 investigation British Veterinary Association (BVA) Senior Vice President Justine Shotton said: “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.”
Justine emphasised that “the public also has an important role to play in stemming the tide of irresponsible breeding. 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.”
