UK vets have ‘positive engagement’ with Disney over new film

Leading veterinary bodies under the umbrella of the Brachycephalic Working Group (BWG) have met with the Walt Disney entertainment organisation in a bid to “mitigate” a potential surge in demand for pugs generated by the release of a new film.

Patrick features a pug in the leading role and the BWG fears its release will trigger a surge in demand for the brachycephalic breed among members of the public who have little knowledge of the health issues associated with such dogs.

‘Stubby, stumpy attitude’

The film, scheduled for release on 29 June, has a plot where spoiled pug Patrick is bequeathed to a young woman called Sarah Francis by her grandmother.

Disney’s PR for the film stated: “…This four-legged interloper proceeds to cause chaos in all aspects of Sarah’s life.

“But then something remarkable happens. Patrick – with all his stubby, stumpy attitude – begins to turn her life around…”

Health issues

The BVA, a member of the BWG, stated on its website: “In response, the BWG has met with Disney to provide advice and information on how the company can manage this anticipated interest in the breed.

“The aim is to ensure anyone considering purchasing a pug carefully researches the breed and is fully aware of the potential health issues, costs and specialist care these dogs may need.

“The actions the BWG has assisted and agreed [correct as of 27 May] with Disney – that aim to mitigate the negative effects the movie Patrick may have on the popularity and demand for the breed – include:

• “Adding a welfare message into the credits section of the film that explains the health issues of pugs.
• “Leaflets to be distributed to journalists, and the public at UK cinemas, that describe the leading health issues of the pug breed and suggest ownership should not be undertaken lightly.
• “Images of pugs dressed in human clothing will not be used in associated marketing.
• “The film will not be accompanied by any merchandising of Patrick pug memorabilia.
• “The BWG will support development of a process to ensure potential animal welfare implications are considered prior to future movies that prominently feature domestic animals.”