The Mayhew is supporting a campaign demanding that breeding French Bulldogs is stopped after seven abandoned pups were brought into its centre in one month.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Four of the seven abandoned French Bulldogs brought into the Mayhew in NovemberFour of the seven abandoned French Bulldogs brought into the Mayhew in November (Image: Archant)

Vet Emma Milne has launched a Vets Against Brachycephalsim campaign which is striving for better animal welfare.

Dogs aged between one-and-a-half and four-years-old were brought to the animal charity in Trenmar Garden, Kensal Green, between November and December.

Head vet, Dr Ursula Goetz said: “The French Bulldogs which were brought in were used for breeding and had a multitude of problems including chronic ear infections, skin conditions, dental problems and an inverted tail. Most of these poor dogs had been suffering with constant chronic pain and discomfort and needed surgery and treatment.”

She added: “Brachycephalic breeds are animals that are bred to have a flat face, which causes their muzzle and nasal aspect to be short, creating a perceived appearance of cuteness. Unfortunately, a high percentage of them will have health problems throughout their lives, including eye problems, breathing problems, skin diseases, neurological and dental problems.

“They have exposed eyes that are prone to injury, skin folds on their face that can become inflamed, infected and sometimes cause trauma to their eyes. These animals can also have a variety of breathing problems such as narrow nostrils and relatively large tongues.”

The charity said there has been a huge surge in the popularity of brachycephalic pets such as Pugs and Bulldogs, with more being bred and available to buy.

According to the Kennel Club, which is dedicated to the welfare of dogs, the French Bulldog was named as London’s favourite breed of dog in 2017.

Zoe Edwards, Mayhew’s head of animal welfare, said: “In the past year, five per cent of the 162 individual breeds Mayhew has dealt with have been brachycephalic. Unfortunately potential owners don’t always understand or are aware of the health problems that these breeds often experience.”

The dogs will be put for adoption as soon as they are vaccinated and neutered.

To learn more about the campaign visit vetsagainstbrachycephalism.comVisit The Mayhew for more information on adoptions and donations.