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)
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.
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.
