BVA welcomes dog breeding consultation

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed news that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is launching a new consultation on dog breeding licence controls.

It aims to make it easier to identify and take action against irresponsible dog breeders, particularly small traders known as 'backstreet breeders'.

President of the BVA Sean Wensley said the consultation is a "valuable opportunity to improve licensing regulations and ensure all breeding establishments are producing only healthy, well-socialised puppies".

He explained many owners can face serious health and behavioural problems if they purchase a dog from an irresponsible breeder, which often end in tragedy but could easily be avoided.

He told potential owners they should ideally get their pet from a member of the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme, or consider a rescue dog from a recognised rehoming charity.

Defra said it is also reviewing issues such as sales, to address the growing trend of buying pets over the internet – which can lead to impulse buying.