Boycott breeders?

Why did PETA supporters steal the show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show with a sign urging everyone to “Boycott Breeders”? Because “Best in Show” is the worst for dogs.

As a licensed veterinary technician, I have seen firsthand the harms of selective breeding, which causes most, if not all, purebreds to suffer from debilitating health issues—and even shortened lifespans. Breathing-impaired breeds including shih tzus and bulldogs have intentionally flattened faces and distorted airways that leave them struggling for every breath; dogs with “skeletal anomalies” like dachshunds and basset hounds have long spines and stubby legs that often result in painful back and joint problems; German shepherds and golden retrievers are prone to early deaths from cancer; and the list goes on.

Humans compound the suffering by mutilating some breeds—such as schnauzers and Dobermans—by docking their tails and cropping their ears to meet “breed standards.” The sight of a dog crying out in pain as they paw at blood-soaked bandages is anything but beautiful.

After the show, breeders and pet stores cash in on the desire for purebred puppies, mass-producing them and worsening the animal overpopulation crisis in which some 70 million animals are homeless in the U.S.

If you’re prepared to give a dog a loving home, don’t support an industry built on exploiting animals. Adopt one (or two!) from your local shelter instead.

Melissa Rae Sanger, LVT

The PETA Foundation

Norfolk, VA