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Posted: 1st May 2013

Most urgent dog welfare needs
Survey among professionals highlights concern

Owners' lack of awareness for dog welfare needs is one of the most urgent issues that need to be addressed for Britain's dogs, according to new research.

A study carried out by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), funded by the RSPCA, has revealed the main dog welfare problems that need to be rectified in our country.

Poor health due to obesity, inherited disease or exaggerated physical features are among the biggest concerns, along with unregulated puppy rearing and lack of provision for behavioural needs.

The study involved surveying more than 200 stakeholders who work with British companion dogs, including veterinary professionals, behaviour specialists and charity staff, to find out how quality of life can be improved.

Companion dogs are defined as a domesticated pet that lives as part of a family unit and is not kept primarily for sport or work.

Opinions differed from profession to profession. While groomers, breeders and both show exhibitors and judges rated dogs' quality of life very high, welfare officers scored it low.

Veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses found exaggerated physical features significantly more important that government, industry or charity stakeholders. They also found obesity to be of high importance.

In contrast, industry considered puppy farming at the forefront of dog welfare issues.

Meanwhile, stakeholders agreed that quality of veterinary care, exercise, educational resources available to owners and the work of rescue and welfare organisations enhance the quality of life for Britain's dogs.

The RVC concluded that differences in stakeholder opinions are likely to relate to their differences in practical knowledge and direct experience. However, it said the responses help build a comprehensive picture of significant dog welfare threats.

The study has been published in the Animal Welfare journal.



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