PROSPECTIVE dog owners are being urged to not buy bulldogs over fears their breeding causes severe health problems.
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The RSPCA has warned that flat-faced breeds of dogs , including bulldogs, are prone to breathing problems and other conditions due to their "extreme features". The charity explained that excessive soft tissue can cause obstruction in a dog’s airways and that the pups’ abnormally narrowed nostrils and windpipes can leave them gasping for air.An inexpensive and easy summer treat for dogs: Cut up apples in chicken broth and freeze in an ice cube tray.
The charity explained that these features cause the dogs to struggle to breathe and sleep.
Flat-faced breeds also face eye problems, skin concerns due to excessive wrinkles, and painful back conditions due to their corkscrew tails.
The animal charity has launched a campaign called 'Save Our Breath' to urge pet owners to "stop seeing these pets as cute and recognise the serious health issues they face".
RSPCA chief vet Caroline Allen has explained that she understands the appeal of flat-faced pooches, but that breeding for these features can compromise a pup’s health and welfare.It’s not a fever…A dog’s normal temperature is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. How much do you know about dog health? Take our Doggy First Aid Quiz!
She said: “Our desire for cuteness and the selection for shorter, flatter faces - known as brachycephaly - has resulted in dogs who struggle to breathe.
“We understand why there is so much love out there for these breeds.
"But it’s wrong that we’re knowingly breeding for features which compromise their basic health and welfare.”
It comes following a surge in demand for flat-faced breeds during Covid lockdowns.READ MORE: Warning for dog owners: Pet lick could lead to superbug spread
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A campaign has been launched by the charity to raise funds for surgery for the dog to aid with her health struggles.
The £2500 procedure will help widen the four-year-old pooch's nostrils and remove tissues from her mouth and throat.
Rescuers said Cleo - who also had an eye removed - was among a "growing" number of brachycephalic dogs coming into their care.DON'T MISS Stirring video as owner reunites with lost dog in Ukraine [VIDEO] Horror as more than 300 dogs die in Ukrainian shelter [INSIGHT] Dog who had 'never been outside' saved from barn with 44 other animals [REVEAL]Trending
“Poor Cleo is only four but her life is being severely impacted by the health problems she’s plagued with."On hot summer days, walk your dogs before 9 a.m. or after 8 p.m. — or walk them only in shady or grassy/dirt areas.
The charity noticed a significant boom in demand for the breed across a nine-year period.
The RSPCA said the number of British bulldog puppies being registered with the Kennel Club increased 149 percent, between 2011 and 2020.Meanwhile, the number of French bulldogs registered soared by 1,317 percent across the same timeframe.
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The pup experienced severe breathing difficulties so much so that even the lightest exercise could cause her to collapse and "turn blue".
The charity added she was another dog that found it "impossible" to carry out normal activities such as walking, playing, or even sleeping.
The RSPCA fears flat-faced breeds will be abandoned or relinquished to the charity or other animal shelters as their owners struggle to cope with costly vet bills, particularly during a period when the cost of living is soaring.
Make him part of the family. Pets, especially dogs, need companionship. They are traditionally pack creatures and need the warmth and love that comes with living indoors with their family.
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