Dear Constituent,
Thank you for contacting me about brachycephalic animals.
Brachycephaly refers to a short skull shape, which gives the appearance of a flattened face. As you say, because of this extreme body shape, brachycephalic animals have a much higher risk of developing numerous painful illnesses and diseases than others.
Under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, anyone in the business of breeding and selling dogs, or who breeds three or more litters in a twelve-month period, needs a valid licence from their local authority. Under these regulations, local authorities have powers to grant, refuse or revoke a licence. I am aware that licences must achieve and maintain statutory minimum animal welfare standards, linked to the welfare needs of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Further, under these regulations, licensed breeders are prohibited from breeding dogs if it can be reasonably expected that, based on their genotype, phenotype or health, this would lead to welfare problems for the mother or the puppies. This applies to brachycephalic breeds. Both licensed and unlicensed animal breeders are required under the Animal Welfare Act to protect the animals involved in breeding from harm and to provide for their welfare in line with good practice. A breach of these provisions may lead to imprisonment, a fine, or both.
I understand that Defra’s campaign Petfished raises awareness of issues associated with low-welfare and illegal supply of pets. The campaign provides a list of red flags for buyers to look out for when searching for a pet online. More information can be found here.
After much delay, the Government's Animal Welfare Strategy outlined its intention to end the low-welfare breeding of dogs. It highlighted the growing concerns about dogs bred for fashionable aesthetic qualities, which allow known health and welfare issues to persist. After consulting the sector, I hope the Government brings forward measures as soon as possible to improve welfare.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Sincerely,
