Film released on National Pet Day after Moray's M:ADE for Mutts project highlighted cruelty of puppy farming trade
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A MORAY arts organisation is promoting responsible pet ownership with the release of a film made last year in reaction to a rise in local instances of illegal puppy farming.
The short educational film is the outcome of a project held in February last year, M:ADE for Mutts, run by Moray Arts Development Engagement (M:ADE), to raise awareness of the issue.
The M:ADE for Mutts weekend of creative activities culminated in a community dog walk at Roseisle Beach.
Supported by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and Moray Coast Vet Group, M:ADE's film offers expert advice on how to go about buying a dog responsibly.
The launch had been delayed due to the pandemic, but the video is now being released to coincide with National Pet Day, on Sunday, April 11.
The film features Kathleen Robertson, president of the Scottish branch of the BVA, Alison Simpson, Scottish SPCA north chief inspector, and local vet nurse Debbie Main.
Demand for pets has spiked dramatically throughout the pandemic, and unscrupulous dog breeders have managed to find ways to capitalise and dupe buyers into thinking they are getting a healthy, happily raised animal.
The film includes advice on the questions to ask and signs to look out for to avoid the heartache often involved in buying such an animal – and help break the greed-driven trade.
Stacey Toner, director at M:ADE, said: "This resource had originally been made in response to the growing visibility around puppy farming in and around Moray during 2019.
"Working with local veterinary practitioners, M:ADE hoped to raise awareness of the issue, through creative social action.
"Due to Covid-19, we delayed the release of this short film focused on responsible pet ownership, yet a year on the messages and sentiment are somewhat even more prominent.
"Given an increase in dog purchasing during lockdown, we are beginning to see the impact of uninformed decision-making, with many animals now up for rehoming with the prospect of owners returning to work.
"In alignment with National Pet Day, we want this piece to support those with a genuine interest in giving a forever home to a dog – whilst reinforcing the reward that comes with that when done so through proper consideration."
Watch the video at https://vimeo.com/410119128.
