Pandemic pet boom causing problems, MPs hear
The coronavirus pandemic saw a rise in dog ownership.
Leading veterinary surgeons and experts from animal welfare charities shared their insights on some of the biggest pet welfare issues with MPs at a committee hearing on Tuesday, 4 July.
RCVS president Melissa Donald and BVA senior vice-president Justine Shotton attended, alongside representatives from the charities Dogs Trust, Cats Protection, PDSA, Blue Cross, World Horse Welfare and Naturewatch Foundation.
Answering questions from the cross-party group of MPs which make up the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee, they spoke about issues including canine fertility clinics, the importing of puppies into the UK, dog behavioural issues, as well as the ear-cropping of dogs and the de-clawing of cats.
The topic of puppy yoga, which has made the headlines this week following an ITV News investigation, was also raised. Dr Shotton spoke about the “serious concerns” that veterinary surgeons would have about the welfare of the puppies involved.
The answers given to the committee will be used as oral evidence for the ongoing ‘Pet Welfare and Abuse’ inquiry, which is looking at the impact a rise in pet ownership during the coronavirus pandemic may have had on animal welfare.
Evidence suggests that practices such as ‘back-yard’ breeding and importing heavily pregnant bitches increased during the pandemic to meet a growing demand for dogs, with many people acquiring a pet for the first time.
The inquiry is also looking at the impact that the rise in the cost of living is having on people’s ability to look after their pets and the subsequent pressures on veterinary practices and pet charities.
Dr Paula Boyden, veterinary director at Dogs Trust, said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to share our experience on a number of important issues – ranging from puppy smuggling to the cost of living.
“I hope this inquiry encourages the Government to implement real changes which will help improve animal welfare.”
The session was chaired by MP and veterinary surgeon Neil Hudson.
Following the session, Dr Hudson said: “Clearly the pandemic has represented a sea change in pet ownership. More pet owners have led to an increase in illegal puppy smuggling to appease the demand and a boom in puppy farms.
“Furthermore, these new pet owners can sometimes be inexperienced, leading them to irresponsible pet buying, such as purchasing declawed cats and dogs with cropped ears; and an inability to properly care for their animals.”
“Now more than ever I would urge people to be responsible when getting their pets – ensuring animal health and wellbeing is at the forefront of their decision making.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
