BBC Cuts Crufts Coverage

The decision for the BBC to cut the televise coverage of Crusfts concern the RSPCA. The RSPCA believes it reflects deep scientific and public concern about the unacceptably high levels of disability, deformity and diseases affecting pedigree dogs.

In the wake of the BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed the RSPCA decided not to attend Crufts 2009. This decion is to send out a clear message that urgent action must be taken to improve the health and welfare of pedigree dogs.
There are several other leading animal welfare charities and show sponsors that have since decided also not to atened Crusfts.

Hundreds of thousands of dogs are suffering and have disease because they’re primarily bred for how they look rather than their health, welfare and nature as the main focus. Dog shows using current breed standards as the main judging criteria are flawed and don’t do our pedigree dogs no favours. It allows and supports both the breeding of deformed and disabled dogs and the inbreeding of closely related animals. This is morally unforgivable and has to stop.”

The RSPCA wants to see changes within dog shows so that health, the emphasis of dog shows shifted away from arbitrary appearance, so that health, wellbeing and temperament are considered first and foremost. The association wants to help ensure that pedigree dogs have the best possible chance of being fit, healthy and happy with their lives they will lead as pets.