BVA-AWF and RSPCA launch PIP
The British Veterinary Association Animal Welfare Foundation (BVA-AWF) and Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) have jointly launched a new Puppy Contract and Puppy Information Pack (PIP). Both the contract and PIP have been endorsed by the Advisory Council on the Welfare Issues of Dog Breeding, British Veterinary Association (BVA), Companion Animal Welfare Council (CAWC), Dogs Trust, PDSA and UFAW (Universities Federation for Animal Welfare).
The contract and PIP are both designed so that they can be used to help all puppies, regardless of whether they enjoy pedigree status or not. It is planned that the breeder will fill in the PIP prior to sale, thus allowing the owner to learn about the puppy's background, health and previous experiences. The contract is then signed by the breeder to attest that the information is accurate and the owner to confirm that they are willing to provide for the puppy and understand the information they have been given.
Commenting, BVA-AWF Chair of Trustees Tiffany Hemming said “Everyone wants their new puppy to be happy and healthy but all too often veterinary surgeons are presented with new puppies that are suffering health and behaviour problems caused by bad breeding. Based on the expertise of vets, behaviourists, breeders and a number of other experts, the BVA AWF/RSPCA puppy contract and information pack will give potential puppy buyers the tools to select the right pet for them and give them the best start."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
