A LEADING campaigner for the welfare of pedigree dogs has given a cautious welcome to the publication of an independent report into the matter.

Carol Fowler, from Wotton-under-Edge, found herself thrust into the spotlight when she appeared in the BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed, shown in August 2008.

Since then, she has worked tirelessly to change traditional practices for the benefit of all pedigree dogs.

The report was the result of a ten-month long inquiry chaired by Professor Sir Patrick Bateson, who called for a non-statutory Advisory Council on Dog Breeding and changes in the law including a requirement for all puppies to be micro-chipped prior to sale, and an upgraded Accredited Breeder Scheme.

Speaking in London, Prof Bateson said: "Many breeders exercise high standards of welfare, but negligent management on puppy farms is a major welfare issue as is inbreeding in pure-bred dogs. Fashions for extreme conformations are also a cause of welfare problems."

Carol, who went to London in person to receive a copy of the report, said: "Initially I was disappointed with the report as I thought it didn't go far enough, but on closer reading I am finding much to celebrate.

"I particularly welcome the setting up of an Independent Advisory Body to advise the Kennel Club and breed clubs, more stringent welfare requirements for dog breeding farms and the modification of breed standards to avoid exaggerations.

"I am disappointed that the recommendation for a more robust Accredited Breeder Scheme creates a two-tier system for Kennel Club registered dogs, which in practice will mean that the majority of pedigree puppies will still not be protected from inherited diseases.

"In spite of this, the launch of Professor Bateson's Report was a historic day for all dogs and is part of an unstoppable momentum to end the unnecessary suffering."

The Kennel club, who introduced new standards for 209 breeds last year, said they "broadly welcomed" the report.

Cotswold MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown praised Carol's commitment to raising the profile of the issue of hereditary health problems in pedigree dogs.

He said: “From the very first moment I met with Carol I was struck not only by her compassion for animals and her dedication but by the strength of her case.

"It was quite clear that the issue of the health of pedigree dogs was being overlooked, but the film in which Carol appeared demonstrated the case to the animal loving people of the United Kingdom and I know she received a huge amount of supportive messages which has continued to spur her campaign."

Mr Clifton-Brown has now arranged for Carol to meet and present the case for changes in the Animal Welfare Act to decision-makers in the Conservative Party.