DISCOURAGE WELSH DESIGNER BREEDING

Sir — In response to “The true cost of a pretty face” (news, 21 June), regarding “designer breeding” resulting in some mouths becoming too small for the equine’s teeth, the Welsh Pony and Cob Society (WPCS) has and will always promote responsible breeding. It would always try to discourage breeding trends that would ultimately impact on animal welfare.

The welfare of all equines, primarily Welsh ponies and cobs, is paramount, as animal welfare underpins the articles of our breed society. It is sad to see the product of some breeding programmes that may have led to cases that mirror the unfortunate Welsh section A pony featured.

The society veterinary officer, Roland Michell MRCVS, and I agree with Vikki Fowler’s comments. The problems, highlighted by the erupting teeth in the photos, are undoubtedly attributable to breeding that has produced a small head not large enough for housing the teeth.

I note that this is not just exclusively found in Welsh breeds, but Arabs and other miniature breeds, as the extreme, smaller headed Welsh Mountain pony

seems to have become less common over recent years.

The society would certainly welcome any statistics or evidence of these suggested dental trends, as it would be an issue that may be best addressed at our biannual judges and breeders’ conference. Ed Gummery

WPCS welfare coordinator Lampeter, Ceredigion