British Veterinary Association Ends Opposition to Vegan Diets for Dogs

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has ended its opposition to nutritionally-sound vegan diets for dogs. The change follows criticism regarding its partnership with Mars Petcare, a major seller of meat-based pet foods. Andrew Knight, a veterinary professor, highlighted the potential conflict of interest.

In 2023, the BVA stopped public statements against vegan pet food and established a working group to review companion animal diets. On July 24, 2024, they published a new policy stating it is possible to feed dogs a plant-based diet, emphasizing supporting owners in meeting pets' nutritional needs.

The demand for vegan pet diets is growing. The BVA reported that 42% of vets have clients using such diets, driven by health, environmental, and animal welfare concerns. Studies show that vegan diets can provide equivalent or superior health outcomes for pets.

An environmental study suggests transitioning all pet dogs to vegan diets could save more greenhouse gases than the UK produces. Transitioning pet dogs could feed 450 million people, and sparing seven billion farmed animals annually has significant global benefits.

Andrew Knight praised the BVA's decision and urged other veterinary associations to follow suit.