Alexa, Show Me What Torture Breeding Looks Like

The definition of torture breeding is “breeding in the full knowledge that the dog is likely to suffer”. This is exactly what is happening right now, and we continue to see an increasing number of bully type dogs suffering purely to achieve a certain look.

Keanu is an 8 month-old Pocket Bully who was surrendered into our care when his owners could no longer care for him. Keanu has severe abnormalities in his front legs with his paws turning outward at a 90 degree angle. This is most likely caused by atypical bone development due to rapid growth, but we won’t know for sure until he has X-rays at our vet which are being carried out as soon as possible. His whole-body shape is wrong, this breed is deliberately bred to have dense muscle and body mass with short, thick legs. You can also see the shape of his spine is not good and hear how bad is breathing too.

We are pleading with the public not to buy these dogs. The breeders are only breeding what the public demand, and these “torture” breeders are easy to identify with fancy kennel names and the focus being on pretty colours and exaggerated features such as nose ropes, skin folds and muscle. We have recently raised the issue with Welsh Government, who need to recognise the huge problem with unlicensed breeders and ensure ALL breeding is regulated and that torture breeding is prohibited through fitness to breed requirements. In the interim, the dogs continue to suffer and it is left to animal welfare charities to pick up the pieces.

Keanu is on pain relief to keep him comfortable in the interim. At the moment we do not know whether there will be any possible treatment options for Keanu, but we will prioritise his welfare, quality of life and comfort at all times.

We are taking it a step at a time with Keanu with regards to prognosis and treatment but if you are able to help with a kind donation towards his initial x-rays and care we would be extremely grateful as right now the pressure on our vet bills is relentless.

You can donate on Facebook, Instagram, online, by calling 01443 226659 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) or by texting HOPERESCUE followed by your donation amount to 70085. Texts cost your donation plus one standard network rate message and you'll be opting into hear more from us. Text HOPERESCUENOINFO to donate but opt out.

Thank you from our team, Keanu and all the dogs at Hope Rescue.