Skinny Dogs Are Just Misunderstood

Tuesday 6 Aug 2002

Accusations levelled at farmers with skinny dogs are akin to believing that marathon runners are half-starved, ACT Agriculture Spokesman Gerry Eckhoff said today.

"Sheep dogs need to be sleek and fit to do the work they love doing. Uninformed comment from well-meaning visitors to rural New Zealand is given too much credibility where none is due.

"It should be noted that farmers are often dog trialists and keep their dogs in perfect health - the dogs' shining coats are testimony to their being well-nourished.

"As in humans, having an overweight dog is much more of a health risk. I see no reason why dog owners with obese animals should not be charged with cruelty by the SPCA," Mr Eckhoff said

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