British Veterinary Association Ends Opposition to Nutritionally-Sound Vegan Diets for Dogs

Photo Credit: Prof. Andrew Knight

SOUTHAMPTON, England, July 25, 2024 (VSNewsNetwork.com) - The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has ended its opposition to nutritionally-sound vegan diets for dogs. This change follows a review by a working group established by the BVA to assess its stance on companion animal diets, including vegan diets.

Previously, the BVA had opposed vegan diets for dogs and maintained a partnership with Mars Petcare, a company that profits from meat-based pet foods. Andrew Knight, a veterinary professor of animal welfare, stated, “The Mars-BVA partnership represents a significant conflict of interest. Veterinary associations have a responsibility to ensure their positions are evidence-based, up-to-date and not influenced by conflicts of interest.”

In response to such critiques, the BVA ceased its public opposition in 2023 and initiated a comprehensive review. On July 24, 2024, the BVA officially ended its opposition, stating, “It is possible to feed dogs a plant-based diet…” The new policy focuses on supporting pet owners in meeting their pets’ nutritional needs while aligning with their lifestyle choices.

A key study found that transitioning all pet dogs to vegan diets could save more greenhouse gases than produced by the entire UK. Acccording to the study, If all pet cats were transitioned, it would save sufficient food energy to feed 70 million people, with greater potential savings for pet dogs.

Professor Knight remarked, “It is commendable that the BVA has finally ended its unscientific opposition to nutritionally-sound vegan dog diets and has noted the environmental benefits that plant-based ingredients may provide. It is now up to international veterinary associations to follow suit.”

For more information, visit Prof. Knight’s website.

Source: Prof. Andrew Knight via Newswire