animal welfare – Page 9 – The NEN

New veterinary journal study reveals sharp rise in ear-cropping

Ear cropping of dogs rose sharply in 2021, Vet Record study finds

A study published in leading veterinary journal Vet Record has found that rates of ear cropping in dogs seen in vet practices in the UK rose sharply in 2021.

In the majority of cases, the dogs had been legally imported from EU countries where the procedure is illegal, igniting renewed calls for action on closing this legislative loophole via the Kept Animals Bill.

The study, Dogs with cropped ears in the UK: A population-based study using electronic health records, has been published in a recent issue (4-11 March 2023) of the British Veterinary Association’s (BVA) journal.

It found that a total of 132 dogs with cropped ears were seen by vets across a sample size of 500 practices between 2015 and 2022, with numbers peaking in 2021.

The breeds most likely to have cropped ears were the American bulldog, Dobermann, Italian mastiff and bulldog. In more than 60% of the cases, the dogs had been imported from countries where ear cropping is illegal, such as Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Serbia, Spain, Poland and Ireland.

Ear cropping is an unnecessary, painful mutilation that involves cutting off part of a puppy’s ear flap for cosmetic reasons, often without anaesthesia or pain relief. Sometimes the ears are splinted to make them stand upright.

The practice carries no health or welfare benefits for the dog and is illegal in the UK. However, it remains legal to import and sell dogs with cropped ears, and it’s not a specific offence to send dogs abroad to be cropped.

The increase in rates of ear cropping reported in the Vet Record study was determined to be broadly consistent with data from the RSPCA in a similar period, with 279 cases and a 621% increase in reports of ear cropping made to the charity’s emergency helpline between 2015 and 2020.

Similarly, in BVA’s 2021 Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey, six in 10 vets that had seen ear cropping felt the number of dogs with cropped ears they saw in practice had increased over the previous year.

It also found that there is still work to be done to raise awareness among clients that ear cropping is illegal in the UK- while 19% of vets believe most of the owners of dogs with cropped ears they saw were already aware that the mutilation is illegal, 15% said that none of their clients were aware until they reached the practice.

The study’s authors- Lucy J. Norris, Gina L. Pinchbeck, Peter-John M. Noble and Alan D. Radford- used data from electronic health records submitted by veterinary practices participating in the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (SAVSNET).

They acknowledge that the findings of their research are likely just a small snapshot of the true scale of the ear cropping problem*. Figures from the 2022 PDSA PAW Report suggest that the true numbers of dogs imported with cropped ears could be as high as 26,000.

In a commentary accompanying the research, RSPCA Head of Companion Animals Samantha Gaines writes: “The study provides strong evidence to refute arguments for ear cropping to prevent ear infections, as the breed types identified in Norris and colleagues’ study are not generally predisposed to such infections. Rather, this finding adds weight to anecdotal evidence suggesting that the motivation for ear cropping in many dogs is driven by appearance rather than any perceived health benefits.

“It is also possible that some dogs were cropped illegally in the UK using legal importation as a smokescreen for this activity. Indeed, it is the RSPCA’s experience that many dogs stated as being cropped outside of the UK have histories that would make this highly unlikely.”

In an editorial, Vet Record editor-in-chief Suzanne Jarvis said: “This research, together with an accompanying commentary article by Samantha Gaines, offers an insight into the murky, sometimes illegal, circumstances surrounding ear cropping.

“The researchers identified dogs that had had their ears cropped in the UK, despite the procedure being illegal here. There were further cases where it was very difficult to establish when and where the cropping had been done. The worrying thing is that some owners don’t even realise that their dog has been mutilated.

“One solution to the importation problem is proposed in the Kept Animals Bill, which is currently stalled in parliament. Although there could be potential for fraud around grandfather rights initially, a ban on such importations would ultimately mean that the sight of a dog with cropped ears becomes a thing of the past in the UK.”

British Veterinary Association Senior Vice President Justine Shotton said: ”This paper provides further evidence on the concerning rise in ear cropping that vets are seeing in practice. Unsurprisingly, as the study’s authors state, the numbers of cropped dogs seen in this study are not representative of the true UK-wide picture, with that figure expected to me much higher.

“As part of the British Veterinary Association’s #CutTheCrop campaign, we would like to see the government take decisive action to pass the Kept Animals Bill, which will help close the legal loophole that allows the importation of dogs with cropped ears into the UK and acts as a cover for the illegal procedure to be carried out within the country too.”

For more information on BVA’s #CutTheCrop campaign, see:

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/ear-cropping-campaign/

To access the Vet Record research, see:

https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/vetr.2483

Vet warns about Easter traditions that are dangerous to our pet

Vet warns about top Easter traditions that aren’t pet friendly

Easter is a fun time full of celebrations for the whole family, and it’s a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your pet but it’s important to be aware of the dangers that pose a threat to our beloved furry friends at this time of year.

On average, April sees a 54 per cent increase in dogs being poisoned by chocolate* compared to other times of the year, making it the second highest month for claims after the Christmas period.

To ensure Easter is a happy and safe time for you and your pet, Bella & Duke’s Chief Veterinary Consultant, Brendan Clarkelists his 5 top tips for making Easter safe for your pet, including which easter foods and springtime plants they should be avoiding.

Easter eggs and chocolate treats

Easter eggs and other chocolate treats are a definite no for pets. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine which is toxic and really difficult for dogs and cats to metabolise. The level of toxicity depends on the darkness and concentration of the cacao, so a quality 85% dark chocolate is going to be much more toxic than one milk chocolate M&M but giving any type of chocolate to pets must be avoided. If you want to get your pet involved in the annual easter egg hunt, why not opt for some scrumptious venison treats.

2. Hot cross buns

Hot cross buns contain dried fruit such as raisins and sultanas, both of which are toxic to dogs and cats and can cause kidney damage. It’s important you ensure these are kept out of reach from your pet as even small quantities can cause a lot of damage.

Spring bulbs and flowers

Easter is beautiful time of year with spring flowers and bulbs in full bloom, but make sure you keep them well out of reach of your furry friend, particularly if they’re prone to chewing plants or digging up the garden.

Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and amaryllis are all common spring plants that are poisonous to both cats and dogs. They can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and other dangerous side effects. It’s always really important to keep an eye on your dog to make sure it’s not eating anything nasty out on walks

Lilies, including Asiatic lilies and daylilies, can be harmful to both dogs and cats, however the consequences are far more severe in cats. The flowers, leaves, pollen (which may easily attach to your cat’s fur and then be mistakenly swallowed through the grooming process) are all deadly. Even the water from a vase holding lilies, if consumed, can be potentially lethal. Make sure if you receive any flower bouquets this spring, that they are well out of reach of your pets.

4. Easter basket fillers and decorations

When gifting or receiving easter baskets, it can be tempting to let pets play with plastic grass and straw and tissue, but they can be easily swallowed and often lead to digestive issues, resulting in vomiting, bloating and dehydration. Always keep decorations and gifts out of reach and use pet-friendly toys instead.

5. Spring Cleaning

If you’re using Easter to tidy up the house with a bit of spring cleaning, it’s important to remember that many cleaning products can be dangerous to pets.

Common household cleaning products such as heavily scented disinfectants, bleach and laundry detergent are toxic and should be kept safely away from pets.

If you’re doing a spring clean, it’s a great opportunity to give your pet’s belongings a deep clean to remove dirt, hair, and bacteria, using pet-friendly products.

Brendan Clarke, Chief Veterinary Consultant at Bella & Duke said: “Easter can be such a fun time for the whole family, including our pets too. We all like to treat ourselves to festive treats such as easter eggs and hot cross buns, but it’s really important we know what’s good and bad for our pets’ health.

“The safest bet is to make sure easter chocolate is not left in reach of your pets, stick to raw food and natural treats for easter egg hunts and always be alert when out and about on spring walks.”

*The Kennel Club 2022

Money saving advice for pet owners

PDSA shares top five tips to cut pet care costs

New research reveals almost half (47%) of pet owners are worried about how they’d afford to pay for vet bills if their pet fell ill or became injured – increasing by 17% since 2022. The data comes from a report by leading vet charity PDSA, which is providing frontline support for desperate owners, as more struggle with the cost of living crisis.

The charity’s 2022 PAW Report also highlighted that a worrying 61% of cats and 39% of dogs were uninsured, meaning thousands of owners could find themselves in financial trouble with an unexpected vet bill should the worst happen.

With the cost of living not set to ease any time soon, PDSA Vet, Claire Roberts, shares her expert tips to save money when caring for your pet.

Claire said: “The cost of living continues to rise, with daily essentials out of budget for millions of people. Our latest PAW report found many people are already reducing their energy consumption to ensure they can care for their pets.

“We know there are certain expenses associated with pet ownership that can’t be avoided, including food and treatment costs if they should fall ill or become injured. However, there are still ways to reduce your pet-related outgoings while maintaining your furry family member’s health and happiness.

Prevention is better than cure

“One of the best ways to safeguard your beloved pet and avoid unplanned costs for medical care is to keep on top of their preventive healthcare.

“Cutting back on pets’ annual booster vaccinations or regular flea and worming treatments may appear to save money in the short-term, but avoiding these measures puts their overall health at risk. Not only this, but if they do become ill as a result, the subsequent treatment is likely to cost substantially more than the preventive options.

“Likewise, neutering your pet prevents unwanted pregnancies, reduces the likelihood of them developing some serious illnesses and can lessen certain behaviours like spraying, aggression and roaming.

Don’t ignore insurance

“If your pet does become ill or injured, insurance can ensure any treatment they need will have less of an impact on your finances. The monthly cost of insurance will depend on a range of factors, including the level of cover as well as your pet’s breed and age.

“Cheaper policies are often ‘accident only’ and may not cover anything illness-related, while more expensive lifetime policies tend to provide cover for any accidents or illnesses (though they don’t usually cover vaccinations or other preventive treatments) as long as the policy is continued, without a break. So make sure you read the small print carefully.

“When considering insurance, we always recommend researching any breed-related illnesses your pet may be prone to, that way you can review which policies cover those, for extra security.

Watch the pounds

“It’s important to monitor your pet’s weight and take action if they are gaining extra pounds – this will help avoid weight-related health problems which can require costly lifelong medication. The best way to help furry friends maintain a healthy weight is by incorporating daily exercise into their routine and ensuring they eat a complete, well-balanced, nutritious diet. Treats should also only make up 10% of your pet’s daily food allowance, which is also a great way to cut back and save, if you are over-indulging your pet with snacks!

Buy in bulk

“Pet food is typically more cost-effective when bought in larger quantities, with bargains to be had by shopping around.

“If your financial situation means that you are considering switching to a cheaper food, make sure you choose one labelled ‘complete’ – a nutritionally balanced diet is vital in supporting pets’ overall health and helps to avoid potentially costly medical treatment in the long term.

Learn to groom your pet at home

“Grooming costs soon add up, especially for long-haired pets or those with tightly-curled coat types, such as Poodles and their crosses. Brushing regularly can also help you spot any skin problems before they develop into anything more serious.

“There are lots of free resources that offer cost-saving tips and advice on maintaining your pet’s health available on the PDSA website. Personal circumstances can change at any time and if you do find yourself struggling to afford your pet’s veterinary care, see if you are eligible for free or low-cost support by using the charity’s eligibility checker.”

PDSA relies on donations to deliver life-saving treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets across its 48 Pet Hospitals in the UK.

To help keep families together, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support more than ever to prevent vulnerable people having to make a truly heartbreaking decision.

To find out more about PDSA’s vital work during the cost-of-living crisis, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/costoflovingcrisis

Government reaffirms support for the ban on hunting trophies

The Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill has been passed by the House of Commons

The UK Government made a manifesto commitment to ban imports of hunting trophies of endangered animals and yesterday supported the passage of Henry Smith MP’s Private Member’s Bill which delivers this.

The Government will continue to support the Bill in the Lords helping to protect animals listed by the internationally agreed Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

After the debate, International Biodiversity Minister Trudy Harrison said: “This is a pivotal moment in delivering one of our key manifesto commitments on international conservation and animal welfare.

“Using an internationally agreed list of species, this will play an important part in helping reverse the decline of wildlife across the world. I look forward to it becoming an Act of Parliament.”

Conservative MP for Crawley Henry Smith said: “At the last General Election we stood on a manifesto commitment to ban imports of hunting trophies of endangered animals. The House of Commons passing this legislation today marks an important moment in ensuring that this pledge to support conservation becomes a reality.

“I’m grateful to the Government for supporting my Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill and I look forward to it now progressing through the House of Lords.

“Our country does not want to be part of a trade in the body parts of endangered species. Today the Commons sent this message loud and clear.”

The Bill will ban the import of trophies hunted from around 6,000 species including lions, elephants, rhinos, and polar bears.

It follows the government’s world-leading Ivory Act which came into force last year, introducing a near total ban on the import, export and dealing of items containing elephant ivory in the UK. We will also be setting out measures in due course on whether to extend that ban to other ivory bearing species.

The Government will also support Angela Richardson’s Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Bill in the Lords, which will provide the ability for government to ban the sale and advertising of activities abroad which involve low standards of welfare for animals.

Public urged to follow new flat-faced dog national plan to protect welfare

The Brachycephalic Working Group (BWG), a national group of the UK’s leading dog health and welfare organisations, has launched a new three-point plan that calls on the public to play their part in protecting the health of flat-faced dogs.

The launch of the plan comes during Crufts – which offers a platform to talk about the serious health and welfare issues of some flat-faced dogs and the opportunities there are to drive improvement – and follows the recent announcement from online card retailer Moonpig that Pugs and French Bulldogs will no longer feature on its products.

Many flat-faced dogs such as Pugs, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs, especially those bred for profit and for extreme features like very flat faces or excessive wrinkles, can face serious health and welfare issues related to breathing difficulty, eye problems, skin fold infections, spinal problems and difficulty giving birth.

Endless exposure that portrays these dogs as ‘cute’ looking in the media has resulted in an explosion in their popularity in recent years, with high demand being met by poor quality breeding both within the UK and via illegal importation from the EU.

The BWG, which is made up of veterinary associations, welfare organisations, universities, the government, breeders and dog owners are highlighting the public’s shared responsibility to protect dogs from the health and welfare harms that can result from breeding for the flat-face ‘look’.

The new BWG plan lays out how dog owners and the wider public can help protect the health of flat-faced dogs. The new national plan comes at a critical tipping point when growing evidence suggests that the UK dog-buying public may finally be beginning to ‘Stop and think before buying a flat-faced dog’ as the BWG recommends.

BWG has been working for the past seven years to reduce public demand for flat-faced dogs in the UK, and this work now appears to be taking effect.

Figures from the UK’s largest canine welfare charity, Dogs Trust, show a significant decline in the importation of flat-faced breeds over the last five years*, while results from classified advertising website Pets4Homes suggests similarly decreasing interest in flat-faced dogs from buyers to their site**.

Dr Dan O’Neill, Chair of the Brachycephalic Working Group (BWG), says: “Maximising good health, welfare and temperament overrides all other considerations for dogs. Our new three-point national plan sets out how everyone in the UK can play their part in ending the flat-faced dog crisis.

“The BWG national plan asks prospective dog buyers to ‘Stop and think’ before buying breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs or before promoting images of flat-faced dogs publicly, for current owners of flat-faced dogs to be prepared for the extra health needs that can come with these body shapes, and finally in the future to only buy dogs with non-extreme body shapes.

“The recent decision by Moonpig to cease selling products with imagery of Pugs and French Bulldogs is a welcome move that reflects growing public sentiment about the serious health issues of many flat-faced dogs. However, there is still plenty of work to be done and we need everyone in the UK to pitch in and help turn the tide on the flat-faced dog crisis for good.”

Bill Lambert, spokesperson for Crufts and The Kennel Club – a founding member of the BWG – added: “We all have shared responsibility to flatten the demand from the general public for unhealthy extremes in dogs which has been driven by popular culture.

“Whilst some flat-faced dogs lead healthy lives, some have severe respiratory disease and we must tackle these serious health concerns, which is why we have developed a test for this condition – the Respiratory Function Grading Scheme – offered free at Crufts.

“It’s so important that educational platforms like Crufts highlight these issues, provide resources to drive health improvements and signpost people to make responsible decisions when it comes to dog ownership.”

BWG-National-Plan-Our-shared-human-responsibilities-Infographic-230308 Download

British Veterinary Association Senior Vice President Dr Justine Shotton says: “The news that Moonpig will remove Pugs and French Bulldogs from its cards, following years of campaigning by vets and animal welfare groups, shows how powerful collective action can be in bringing about positive change.

“It underscores the importance of our shared responsibility as advertisers, owners, breeders and vets to improve the health and welfare of dogs.

“We’re now calling on dog lovers across the country to play their part, to ‘stop and think’ before buying these breeds of dog and help share the painful truths about the extreme health issues they can suffer. Together we have an opportunity to make a real difference to these terrible breed-related welfare problems.”

BWG’s three-point plan suggests: 

1.‘Stop and think’ if you’re considering getting a flat-faced dog or breeding from a current pet.

If you’re planning to breed your dog, make sure it has passed the official Kennel Club/University of Cambridge respiratory function testing and other breed-specific veterinary health checks first. Avoid sharing social media posts that feature imagery of flat-faced dogs and encourage big brands to do the same. These steps can contribute to dramatically reducing the numbers and popularity of flat-faced dogs.

2. If you already own a flat-faced dog, help protect their health or welfare by learning to recognize the problems that these breeds can commonly suffer from.

For example, audible breathing and/or snoring at rest is never normal or acceptable. If you have any concerns, always consult your veterinary practice and don’t rely on advice found or given on the internet or on social media.

3. If you still plan to buy a flat-faced dog in the future despite awareness of their health and welfare risks, make sure the puppy and its parents have passed all relevant health tests for their breed.

Use the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme and the Puppy Contract to help protect you and your puppy from unscrupulous and low-welfare sellers. Only get a dog that has been bred away from extreme body shapes, such as extreme flat faces, skin folds and lack of tail, all of which are linked to poor innate health.

Visit the BWG website at http://www.ukbwg.org.uk/?page_id=513 to view the full National Plan statement and to download the associated infographic.

GREY2K USA Worldwide welcomes recommended moratorium on greyhound racing in Scotland

Scottish Animal Welfare Commission reports an end to greyhound racing in Scotland would be ‘desirable’

GBGB ‘disappointed with conclusions’

GREY2K USA Worldwide, the world’s largest greyhound protection organisation, has given a cautious welcome to a report on the welfare of greyhounds used for racing in Scotland, published on Wednesday by the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission.

The report, which is thought to be the most comprehensive review of dog racing in Scotland for decades, concludes that the risks of poor welfare outweigh any likely positive aspects, and on average, a dog bred for racing in Scotland currently has poorer welfare than the average of other dogs in the population. It also states that its desirable outcome would be for no organised greyhound racing to take place in Scotland.

Most significantly, the report recommends a moratorium on any new dog tracks. It further recommends that greyhound racing should only continue at the last remaining track, Thornton, if a veterinarian is present when dogs are racing, and all injuries are reported. The continued operation of Thornton would be subsequently reviewed after a period of three to five years.

Christine A. Dorchak, President of GREY2K USA Worldwide said: “While we welcome the effort which has gone into to compiling such a comprehensive report, sadly it only serves to confirm what we already know – that greyhound racing is a cruel and inhumane industry which has precisely zero regard for the dogs bred into a life of racing misery.

“We are pleased the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission has underscored a number of significant problems within the industry including the risk of injury or death at the track; the over breeding of puppies; and that a significant part of a dog’s life may be spent in kennels with little or no social interaction along with the increased risk of neglect and poor veterinary care.

“The recommendation that no further tracks be opened in Scotland would be a significant development, and the requirement for a vet to be present, even at unregulated tracks, is something we welcome. This in our view could spell the end for dog racing at Thornton.”

The report also calls into question whether the Greyhound Board of Great Britain is fit for purpose as a regulator, citing serious concerns about its highly touted “Greyhound Welfare Strategy.” Finally, the report concluded that the Commission “did not find any evidence that the industry was prepared to make the radical changes that would be required to achieve improved dog welfare.”

Ms Dorchak added: “We urge the government to follow these recommendations and pass legislation implementing a moratorium on greyhound racing, a new requirement that a veterinarian be present at Thornton and all injuries be reported, and a requirement that that continued operation of Thornton be dependent on a parliamentary review in 2026.

“That is a responsible policy that will help countless dogs.

“This is an industry which is inherently cruel, existing only on the exploitation of gentle dogs which are viewed as no more than collateral damage for the misguided entertainment of a very small minority.”

Research carried out by Panelbase on behalf of GREY2K USA Worldwide at the end of 2022 shows that six in ten Scottish people think the Scottish Parliament should vote to phase out greyhound racing, while 63% of respondents said they have an unfavourable view of the sport.

Welfare of racing dogs is among the biggest concerns for the Scottish public with 58% believing dogs bred for the tracks have a bad quality of life. Further to this, three quarters of the public think dog racing isn’t important to the Scottish economy.

Responding, Mark Bird, CEO of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), said: “Despite engaging fully and transparently with the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission’s (SAWC) research, we are disappointed by some of their conclusions, which depend on the unproven testimony of certain animal welfare charities and the lobbying campaign funded by American activists.

“We share a common goal with SAWC of protecting and promoting greyhound welfare in Scotland. But we are clear that strong and effective regulation is the only way to do this successfully and have therefore been working with Holyrood officials to support Scotland’s one unregulated track to be licensed.

“Under our remit, racing greyhounds receive far more protection than domestic dogs. We have over 200 Rules governing those within the sport, including the requirement that a veterinary surgeon is present before, during and after any racing, and setting strict standards on the care of greyhounds at tracks, during transportation and at home in their trainers’ residential kennels.

“SAWC has been bounced by the animal rights lobbyists to conclude that domestic dogs already have better welfare protection than this, but this is clearly untrue, and it is frustrating that they have fallen foul of the activists’ agenda.

“Those groups who have campaigned against the sport in Scotland have continued to propagate misleading, inaccurate and unevidenced facts about the regulated sector of the sport. This has been supported by significant funding from animal activists Grey2K USA – something which should concern everyone who believes policy and politics should be dictated by those who live here.

“We are disappointed that this activism has influenced SAWC’s ultimate report, in which anecdote has been prioritised over data, accuracy and transparency. We will, however, continue to engage with members and officials in Holyrood to support greater regulation, as what we know to be in the best interests of racing greyhounds.”

Scottish pet owners cutting back on weekly food shop to afford pet’s care

The true cost of loving: 21% of Scottish pet owners cutting back on weekly food shop to afford pet’s care

Figures from leading vet charity PDSA, which provides vital care for pets during the cost of living crisis, have revealed that 32% of owners in Scotland are having to make personal sacrifices to ensure they can continue to provide for their pets.

PDSA provides free and low-cost treatment to pets in need and has released the data to raise awareness of the lengths pet owners are having to resort to while navigating the cost of living crisis.

19% of Scottish pet owners are reducing how much fuel they use so they can pay for their pets care¹. This comes as Google searches for ‘save money on heating’ spiked by a shocking 878% in 2022.

Having juggled expensive bills throughout winter, alongside the soaring cost of living, owners may face a further hit this April. While the energy price cap is being reduced, meaning the amount suppliers can charge goes down, government help – in the form of the energy price guarantee – is set to come to an end. This means a household’s energy bills could increase by around £3,000 per year.

The looming spring Budget announcement also isn’t expected to go a long way in easing the strain on UK pet owners’ pockets. The huge hike in everyday living costs means pet owners will continue to struggle with the cost of loving their companions.

Giving up personal luxuries (19%) and cancelling or not going on holidays (9%) are among the other sacrifices owners in Scotland are making to save as much as possible in order to continue caring for their pets.¹

39% of Scottish owners are worried about affording the cost of treatment if their pet should fall ill or be injured – making PDSA’s support crucial. Nationally, a quarter of all pet owners (26%) said they’d go into debt³, either with family and friends or via credit and loans, to cover the cost of unexpected veterinary treatment¹.

Yet, with 95% of people are determined to do whatever possible in order to avoid having to make the agonizing decision of rehoming them or having them put to sleep – primarily due to the ever-increasing costs to live¹.

PDSA Veterinary Surgeon, Lynne James, said: “Everyone wants the best for their pets and hearing the lengths loving owners in Scotland are having to go to so they can continue providing for them is heart-breaking.

“In 2022 we provided veterinary care for over 390,000 pets, whose owners would otherwise have struggled to afford the cost. Now more than ever, the treatment we provide is a lifeline for families who face the horrible decision of eating regular meals or treating their furry family member.

“It’s PDSA’s mission to keep people and pets together. Last year we helped hundreds of thousands of families. With more than half of those who rely on our services aged 55 and over, and 37% disabled or living with a serious health condition, their pet often provides vital companionship. For lots of our clients, their pets are their only companion, and their lives would be unimaginable without them.

“I’d encourage anyone struggling to afford the cost of veterinary treatment to find out if they are entitled to access our services by visiting the eligibility checker on our website. We also have lots of free advice on how to reduce the cost of caring for pets, while ensuring they remain healthy and happy.”

PDSA relies on donations to deliver life-saving treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets across its 48 Pet Hospitals in the UK. To help keep pets and people together, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support to prevent vulnerable people having to make a truly heart-breaking decision.

To find out more about PDSA’s vital work during the cost of loving crisis, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/costoflovingcrisis.

How the cost of living crisis is affecting pet owners in Scotland:

32% making personal sacrifices
21% are cutting back on their weekly food shop
2% going without necessities, such as skipping meals
19% are reducing how much fuel they use
19% giving up personal luxuries
9% cancelling or not going on holidays
39% worried about the cost of treatment should their pet fall ill or become injured

The charity has warned these unsettling findings reflect the stark reality for pet owners, many of whom are being forced to make drastic cutbacks as they desperately struggle to stay afloat.

A worrying 21% of owners in Scotland are cutting back on their weekly food shop, and 2% even admit to going without necessities, such as skipping meals to afford the costs associated with looking after their beloved companions¹.

PDSA provides free and low-cost treatment to pets in need and has released the data to raise awareness of the lengths pet owners are having to resort to while navigating the cost of living crisis.

19%¹ of Scottish pet owners are reducing how much fuel they use so they can pay for their pets care¹. This comes as Google searches for ‘save money on heating’ spiked by a shocking 878% in 2022^[ii].

39%¹ of Scottish owners are worried about affording the cost of treatment if their pet should fall ill or be injured – making PDSA’s support crucial¹. Nationally, a quarter of all pet owners (26%) said they’d go into debt³, either with family and friends or via credit and loans, to cover the cost of unexpected veterinary treatment¹.

Vets raise concerns as 1 in 5 pets not receiving veterinary treatment in time due to cost-of-living crisis

As Crufts, the annual international dog show, kicks off this weekend, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is highlighting the importance of taking simple and affordable preventive steps to keep dogs and other pets healthy, to help minimise medical problems from escalating.

The advice comes as BVA’s latest Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey reveals that almost all (99%) of vets across the UK have seen pets in the last 12 months who should have been brought to them for treatment earlier. This represents a significant increase of almost 20% since 2018 and equates to an estimated 1 in 5 pets not receiving timely treatment.

When asked about the main reasons for the delay, 91% vets reported financial reasons as a key factor. More than half of vets (52%) said the number of clients reporting difficulty covering the cost of preventative veterinary care for their animal had increased compared to 2021. This figure rose to 70% when it came to covering the cost of diagnostic care and treatment.

Responding to these findings, British Veterinary Association President Malcolm Morley said: “In a week when the national spotlight turns towards Crufts, it’s important to acknowledge that many pet owners are finding it difficult to meet the basic costs of caring for their animals.

“It’s particularly concerning that vets in practice are seeing increasing numbers of animals with issues that could have been prevented or minimised if treatment had been sought sooner.

“Regular vet check-ups and preventative care may seem costly for many families in the current financial climate, but taking steps now rather than later is the best way to catch any health issues early and keep medical costs to a minimum.

“We urge all pet owners to talk to their vet for advice on simple and affordable steps they can take to keep their animals healthy. These include neutering, keeping up to date on vaccinations, daily teeth cleaning, keeping weight in check, and plenty of exercise.

“The British Veterinary Association encourages pet owners to speak to their vet sooner rather than later if you’re struggling to cover the costs. Vets will always prioritise the welfare of your animal and work closely with clients to make treatment plans tailored to individual circumstances.”

Cats Protection warns of animal welfare crisis as people cut down on vet visits and insurance

Cat owners are cutting back on pet essentials such as vet care, vaccinations, and insurance as a result of the cost of living crisis, according to new research from Cats Protection.

The leading feline welfare charity is seeing a rise in people giving up their cats for financial reasons and is warning there could be an animal welfare crisis as a direct result of the cost of living.

Cats Protection has launched an online hub to support owners in need with a raft of information including how to look after your cat on a budget and how to access help with costs.

One in three* cat owners surveyed said they feel “greatly impacted” by the cost of living crisis, while nearly one in five (18%) said they were spending less on vet services, including missing essential vaccinations or not microchipping their pet.

Meanwhile, nearly one in three (31%) of cat owners said they are concerned about how they would pay emergency vet bills if their cat became sick or injured, with nearly one in five (18%) concerned about paying for routine vet treatment. The charity says this represents tens of thousands of cats whose welfare could now be at risk.

A quarter of cat owners (25%) said they are spending less on pet insurance because of the cost of living and 17% are concerned about paying for insurance in the future.

Alison Richards, Head of Clinical Services at Cats Protection said: “We know the cost of living is having a huge impact on people across the country, with many cat owners making difficult choices to make ends meet. Cutting back on insurance or vet treatment can ultimately lead to higher costs if a cat becomes injured, gravely unwell, or even pregnant.

“We’ve launched a new information hub with lots of tips and ideas for looking after your cat on a budget, with everything from how to make free cat toys to how to access help with costs such as neutering. We want to provide access to information and resources that can help every owner look after their cat.”

Cat owners also reported cutting back on spending, with more than half spending less on eating out or takeaways, days out, clothes, drinking and holidays. The survey also showed that 60% of owners feel their cat is a source of comfort to them during a difficult time.

Adoption centres are also seeing a rise in people giving up their cats for financial reasons.

Nicola Murray, deputy manager at Cats Protection’s Harrow Homing Centre, said: “The cost of living is having a greater impact on animal welfare than Covid. We’ve got desperate people turning up on our doorstep every week and our waiting lists for people wishing to give their cat up are several weeks long.

“People need more information and support for managing their cats during this time as no one should have to give up a much loved pet during a time of crisis.”

*Survey of 3,011 cat owners in the UK, conducted by Basis on behalf of Cats Protection. Fieldwork completed in December 2022.

Scotland risks becoming the UK tourism industry’s ‘capital of cruelty’, campaigners warn

Scottish Government urged to U-turn and support UK-wide legislation to end the exploitation of animals abroad

The Scottish Government is being urged to support legislation at Westminster which would help end the abuse of wild animals across the world exploited to entertain British holidaymakers.

The Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Bill, which recently had an unopposed second reading in the Commons, would help end many endangered species including elephants, tigers, monkeys and dolphins being cruelly exploited as part of the tourism trade.

Elephant calves are deprived of food, water and sleep and then subjected to torture and beatings to force them to submit to giving rides to tourists and performing tricks. The Bill proposes a ban in the UK of the advertising and sale of practices abroad where animals are exploited, harmed and killed for financial gain.

The Bill requires legislative consent from the Scottish Parliament, but the Scottish Government is refusing to support the Bill on the grounds it has not been given enough time to consider the draft law.

Unless the Scottish Government changes its approach, and supports the legislation, then either it will proceed through the parliamentary process but exclude cruel holidays advertised and sold from Scotland, or the entire Bill risks being withdrawn.

Chief Executive of the charity, Save the Asian Elephants, Duncan McNair said: “Of course we understand there is political complexity between Scotland and Westminster but it would be a tragedy if Scotland jeopardised the entire future of the Bill by withholding support and also failed to legislate north of the border. At present no commitment has been made for either of these.

“There are well over 1,000 UK firms promoting these abhorrent activities abroad, including those based in Scotland, such as Scotland’s largest independent travel agency, Barrhead Travel. If the Scottish Government, despite its strong track record on animal welfare, doesn’t legislate alongside Westminster it risks becoming the UK’s capital for cruelty, as tourists will simply book from here instead.”

In 2016 a Scottish holiday maker was killed after being thrown from an elephant during a trek in Thailand. The elephant was reportedly stabbed by its handler after it failed to respond to commands before rearing up and throwing off and crushing 36-year-old Gareth Crowe.

Prior to that in 2000 Helen Costigan’s sister Andrea Taylor was killed in a violent attack by a traumatised elephant, also in Thailand. Helen has since spoken of the shocking scenes which led to her sister’s death, yet still today 120 UK companies advertise this cruel and dangerous tourist attraction.

Helen Costigan supports the new legislation and says: “New law is long overdue to regulate an often greedy and heartless tourism industry, placing profits far above any concerns for animal welfare or human safety.

“I plead with Scotland’s government to support these measures in memory of Gareth Crowe and my own dear sister Andrea, taken from us so horrifically aged just 20.”

Duncan McNair added: “This Bill is a significant, long awaited and well-supported piece of legislation which is not only an important step towards protecting numerous animals from hideous cruelty, but can also prevent needless deaths such as Gareth’s and Andrea’s, both killed by animals driven to insanity by the cruelty they’d been subjected to.”

An Electoral Calculus poll carried out last year shows overwhelming support across every single UK Parliamentary constituency, including throughout Scotland, for such a new law. Of those polled, 85% support a new law to ban advertising venues abroad where this type of cruelty occurs. Only 2% are opposed.

The Bill will go to Committee stage in the House of Commons on 8th March.