Leading vets condemn puppy farm neglect following BBC Watchdog exposé
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Following the BBC Watchdog exposé of shocking animal welfare standards at the Bradford puppy farm, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging the Government and pet owners to take action.
BVA is calling on the Government and enforcement agencies to take all necessary measures to enforce legislation and protect animal welfare standards in dog breeding and trading establishments across the UK.
BVA President Sean Wensley said: “The neglect of the puppies shown in BBC Watchdog is unacceptable, with the breeders prioritising profit over animal welfare.
"The Government and enforcement agencies must employ all measures to ensure breeding establishments comply with the Animal Welfare Acts and pet breeding legislation.
"Pet owners should always consider how a puppy has been reared and cared for before buying, and use the Animal Welfare Foundation/RSPCA Puppy Contract to help them. If a seller is not willing to provide information, this should be considered a red-flag and you should walk away.”
BVA has also issued a list of top tips for anyone thinking of buying a puppy:
- Ask at your veterinary practice about the right pet for you, your lifestyle and your family.
- Download the Animal Welfare Foundation/RSPCA Puppy Contract to help you ask the right questions: www.puppycontract.org.uk
- Do not buy a puppy from anyone else but the breeder, and ensure you always see the puppy with its mother and any littermates. If buying from a breeder, use a breeder that is registered with the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme.
- Ask to see the puppy’s health records (including records of vaccination, worming and flea treatment as well as other veterinary treatment).
- Check everything thoroughly when you see the mother and puppy, for example how the puppies interact with the mother and her reaction to them. If you have any doubts do not buy the puppy.
- Consider getting a rescue dog from one of the recognised rehoming charities.
The BBC Watchdog exposé can be viewed at the following link and is featured at 15; 30; and 50 minutes in:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06h7jlg/watchdog-series-36-episode-1
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