I expect that many of you watched last night's episode of Planet Earth II! The filming of animal and plant life in one of the world's most hostile habitats was spectacular and the contents astonishing — in order to cope with the hurdles presented by life in the desert animals have had to adapt in ingenious ways. Not only are they faced daily with having to find food and water, but the surface temperature can reach 160° — they hide, they hop, they swarm and the fight, all to survive to do the same again the next day.
The animals seen in veterinary practice are largely domesticated — and while this certainly makes life for them easier (they no longer have to hunt or fear predation), it has not necessarily made them healthier. I am, of course, thinking about the brachycephaic breeds that have made headline news in recent months. The interfering hand of humans in selective breeding has altered the genetic traits of brachycephalic breeds in such a way that these cats and dogs are limited in their ability to go about their daily lives (for example with problems breathing), and in a way that goes against nature — they are not better adapted to their environment, but less well adapted.
When asked to comment, The British Veterinary Association said the surge in popularity of these dogs had ‘increased animal suffering’. And, Sean Wensley, the then president of the British Veterinary Association (BVA), said: ‘Prospective owners need to consider that these dogs can suffer from a range of health problems, from eye ulcers to severe breathing difficulties. We strongly encourage people to choose a healthier breed or a crossbreed instead.’
The BVA states that veterinary professionals have a duty, for example acting through professional associations such as BVA and BSAVA, to be part of initiatives that aim to address the health and welfare of a breed beyond the individual affected animal. The BVA called on its members earlier this year to let them know which dog breeding issues they are most concerned about so that they can share vets' and vet nurses' views through their seat on the Kennel Club's Dog Health Group.
It's always interesting talking to the team from ESCCAP about the cases they see, and a recent conversation about a boxer brought into the UK from a breeder in Italy was no exception. The breeder prides himself on the fact that his boxers have longer noses than those traditionally found in the UK and USA, and as such sends sperm to the US for use in artificial insemination. All good for the breed, and a positive way to go except for one thing — the puppy bought from this breeder and imported into the UK has been found to have leishmania which is endemic in Italy! The dog will be on medication for the rest of its life — another thing to consider when buying a dog, especially when importing it from Europe!
This brings me to another item that has recently been newsworthy — the need to see a puppy with its mother in its home environment. Anyone buying or selling a puppy is advised to use the free AWF and RSPCA Puppy Contract. This will help to reduce the chance of buying a puppy from an irresponsible breeder.
I hope you enjoy this issue.