Paws for pedigrees
Paws for Pedigrees is a PhD project which is using a mixed methods approach to collect data from small animal vets, pedigree dog breeders and dog owners in the United Kingdom.
The aim of this study is to explore vets’, breeders’ and owners’ knowledge and perceptions of pedigree and non-pedigree dogs, and the subsequent influence this has on canine health in the UK. A combination of questionnaires and focus groups has been used to collect quantitative and qualitative data.
Key findings to date:
- Vets and breeders differ in where they obtain information on pedigree dogs.
- Vets and breeders have different opinions on which parties are most responsible for promoting certain aspects of pedigree dog health.
- Vets and breeders differ in their opinions of the health issues most commonly seen within certain breeds.
For initial results, follow these links to see poster presentations given at ISVEE 2012 and BSAVA 2013.
Contacts: Christina Kuhl, Rachel Dean, Richard Lea, Caroline Quarmby