Minister Charlie McConalogue has joined the call for advertisers and media to refrain from unnecessary use of images of flat-faced breeds of dogs.
Flat-faced dogs may look cute, but many experience breathing difficulties and significant health problems – that’s the message from the Department of Agriculture.
Many brachycephalic dogs require surgery to improve their quality of life due to difficulty breathing, eye disease, spinal problems and skin infections.
Minister McConalogue said: “The Advisory Council on Companion Animal Welfare has advised me that use of images of brachycephalic dog breeds in advertising, marketing and news media has contributed to increasing demand for brachycephalic dogs in this country. Members of the public may not be aware of the significant health and welfare issues associated with brachycephalic breeds.”
Photo: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
The letter issued today by the Advisory Council for Companion Animal Welfare requests that responsible organisations and influencers prioritise dog welfare and refrain from unnecessary use of images of flat-faced dog breeds in publications, on merchandise or to endorse commercial products.
Minister McConalogue concluded: “In addition to requesting that advertisers and news media prioritise dog welfare and refrain from unnecessary use of images of brachycephalic breeds, I also urge members of the public not to purchase merchandise bearing these images.”
