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New pug film could prompt ‘pester power’, parents warned
Disney recently agreed a set of measures with the Brachycephalic Working Group, to minimise the negative impact of the film’s release.(Stock photo)
Vets fear surge in demand following Disney film release

Parents are being urged to avoid ‘pester power’ from children who may want a pet pug after seeing new Disney film Patrick, which features a pug.

Dr Rowena Packer, a research fellow from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), warned that the release of films showing certain types of dogs has led to 10-year surges in the popularity of those breeds.

In light of ongoing efforts to curb the rising demand for brachycephalic breeds, including pugs, Dr Packer said the film’s release is of “real concern”.

She added: “Depictions of pugs as snoring, greedy, clothes-wearing mini people is potentially damaging to their welfare, with owners misinterpreting clinical signs of disease as ‘cute’ characteristics of the breed.”

Disney recently agreed a set of measures with the Brachycephalic Working Group, to minimise the negative impact of the film’s release. This includes a welfare message in the credits section of the film, leaflets describing pug health issues, which will be distributed at UK cinemas, and a ban on Patrick the pug memorabilia.

BVA president John Fishwick said: “Filmgoers, including young children, may well be charmed by the antics of Patrick but the reality is that thousands of pugs and other flat-faced dogs such as French bulldogs struggle with serious health problems, which often require invasive and costly surgery to correct…

“We understand that kids watching this film may be convinced that they want a pug in their home but we’re asking parents to resist the pester power and choose a healthier breed, crossbreed or mongrel instead.”

The BVA also released new figures from a survey showing 98 per cent of vets who took part had treated brachycephalic dogs for health issues last year. Ninety-five per cent treated at least one with eye problems, while 93 per cent treated breathing issues and 89 per cent treated skin problems.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.