Priority welfare issues for dogs and the veterinary nursing profession

Companion dogs are an important part of British society and culture, however surprisingly, unlike with farm and laboratory animals, the welfare of dogs kept as pets is not closely monitored for health or welfare management. In fact, a recent survey of stakeholder opinions conducted by the Royal Veterinary College has highlighted that our beloved pets may face a multitude of welfare issues and that there is much room for improvement for companion dog quality of life. This is something that should be of concern to those within the veterinary nursing profession, as not only did many veterinary nurses take part in the original study, but they also play a fundamental role in educating owners on a day-to-day basis.

As part of the RSPCA-funded study, the opinions of over 200 professionals working closely with pet dogs including veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, dog breeders, welfare officers and members of advisory bodies, were sought to identify what they believe are the priority issues for companion dogs. When asked to rate the quality of life for companion dogs on a scale, the majority of stakeholders rated them as having between a ‘good life’ and a ‘life worth living,’ however specific groups — mainly those who have most direct experience of welfare issues, and including veterinary nurses and assistants — rated lower on the scale, towards just ‘a life worth living.’