Pooch Perfect has been cancelled after its first series as a result of outrage and concern for the animals’ safety and wellbeing.
The BBC reality show, hosted by Sheridan Smith, which saw Britain’s hairiest hounds get a makeover on the hunt for Britain’s best dog groomer, was axed after it had caused some uproar.
Backlash came as a result of featuring dyed pets, such as a poodle with blue ears, prompting the RSPCA to reportedly claiming the show was sending out a “worrying message” about animals being seen as fashion accessories.
In the programme, which featured 16 professionals competing to see who could transform dogs into the smartest pooches in the land, some animals were dressed in costumes, which caused viewers to complain and assert they were being mistreated.
(Image: BBC/Beyond Productions)
In a statement sent to Metro.co.uk, a spokesperson praised the “light relief” that the programme brought to viewers during the coronavirus pandemic.
They said: “Pooch Perfect brought plenty of light relief to viewers during lockdown.”
“Whilst the show won’t be returning, we’d like to thank Sheridan, the judges, animal experts, groomers and pet owners plus Beyond Productions for bringing such joy when we needed it most.”
The BBC was reportedly forced to defend the controversial show previously, as well as justifying the programme’s motives by saying the welfare team “did not feel there was any risk to the animals and they did not show signs of stress”.
The channel explained that the colours used on the dogs were “strictly controlled and only used to highlight the groom.”
A spokesperson said at the time: “All colour was temporary, safe and washed out almost immediately depending on the dog’s coat.
“But despite the huge increase in dog ownership during the pandemic, the BBC revealed on Thursday that the plug has been pulled on the programme.”
(Image: BBC/Beyond Productions)
The competition was judged by top of professional groomer, Colin Taylor, certified Master Groomer, Lady Verity Hardcastle, and Veterinary Surgeon, Bolu Eso.
Each week, professional groomers participating on the show competed in various challenges in a bid to be crowned the nation’s Top Dog Groomer and win The Golden Stanley trophy.
Despite viewers’ concern regarding the dogs’ wellbeing, BBC had uploaded a frequently asked question on the show’s official page, explaining that the animals were, in fact, well taken care of.
The page read: “The doggies were always pampered, cared for and very well-loved throughout their visit with us.
“Animal Welfare was incredibly important to us throughout the whole process and the production team was helped and guided by The Animal Welfare Consultancy who were recommended to us by the RSPCA.
“In fact, our advisor, Jody Gordon, co-wrote the RSPCA’s rule book which provides advice and support to people using, or thinking of using, animals in any production environment.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
