Hello everybody,

Recently, the 2022 National Dog Show by Purina aired on TV after the Thanksgiving parade. I was shocked and disturbed to learn that the winner was a French Bulldog named Winston. 

As a Veterinary Technology student, I would like to educate you on why I oppose the breeding and showing of Brachycephalic (squished-face) dog and cat breeds. 

Brachycephalic dog and cat breeds are very susceptible to many health problems. These include Severe respiratory stress; cardiovascular depression; sensory issues (involving the nose, mouth, and eyes); Metabolic, Limb, and joint (including increased risk of arthritis, intervertebral disk disease, patellar luxation-shifting kneecap, and osteoarthritis); Neurological (including seizures); reproductive (impaired fertility, mammary tumors, need for c-section); and skin and haircoat issues, among many others. 

I hope this petition leads to more education around keeping, breeding, and showing these breeds and may impact the National Dog Show of 2023. 

Sources:

• https://www.animalclinicofbillings.com/resources/orthopedic-surgery/soft-tissue-surgery/brachycephalic-obstructive-airway-boas-care-and-surgery/
• https://hemopet.org/breeding-brachycephalic-dogs-and-cats-part-1/