RSPCA THREATEN PROSECUTION, IF YOUR DOG WEARS A COAT !

As animal lovers see an increase in the use of dog coats, the RSPCA see an oppourtunity for prosecution.


The RSPCA has compared the practice to leaving dogs in cars during hot weather and warned that if people consistently allow their dogs to get too hot when wearing clothing they could face prosecution.

Owners and experts have also said that the growth of "canine couture" – dressing dogs in "fashionable" clothing – is demeaning to the animals and could even encourage bad behaviour.
Dog clothing has become a big business in recent years. Among the products now available are all-in-one trouser suits, which only leave the head and paws exposed, "jumpers", which cover the body and the front legs, and even "hoodies". Fancy dress designs, such as Elvis Presley-style jumpsuits and pirate costumes, are also available.
Designers, including Vivienne Westwood and Ben de Lisi, have also created dog accessories and clothing, while Harrods holds an annual fashion show for canine clothing, called Pet-a-Porter.
But experts say that, barring a few exceptions – such as very small dogs with short hair, thin breeds like greyhounds, or those bred for much warmer climates, like the Saluki – any form of clothing is unnecessary and impedes a dog's ability to regulate its own temperature.
Mark Johnston, from the British Small Animal Veterinary Association, said: "There are very few occasions when an animal needs a coat, even in the recent cold weather.
"Dogs have developed a very effective coat of their own, which will protect them from the elements. It is adjustable so they can raise the fur to control their temperature. Dressing them in a coat diminishes the animal's ability to regulate their own body temperature and could be detrimental if the animal gets too hot.
"Too high a temperature is more of a risk to the dog's health than too low a temperature. Clothing could also rub and cause sores and if the animal is wearing it for a long time, it could cause skin conditions. Fashion-wise, coats are pointless for dogs."
Helen Briggs, a spokeswoman from the RSPCA, added: "Under the Animal Welfare Act, you are obliged to provide appropriate conditions and environments for your dog. So if you are slapping a great big coat on it when it really doesn't need it, then that could cause it to suffer if it is overheating. It is the same as if you leave a dog in a car in hot weather.
"Some breeds have been bred to have less fur, so in some cases it is quite appropriate for a dog to wear a coat in very cold weather. But if an owner is just doing it for a fashion statement or because they think it is cool, I would question that. If people are worried that their dog might be cold, it is worth getting some advice from their vet to see if it is appropriate or not."


http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/4214076/Animal-welfare-experts-hot-under-the-collar-over-dogs-in-coats.html