The BBC has spoken out in defence of dog grooming reality show Pooch Perfect, after complaints from viewers concerned the show “sets a bad example to pet owners”.
Pooch Perfect debuted on BBC One last month, with Sheridan Smith and her canine co-host Stanley on presenting duties.
In a statement published by the BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) it said it had received “some complaints” about the show, issuing a response on Wednesday.
“During the production process, the producers consulted with both the RSPCA and British Veterinary Association (BVA) to ensure best practise as regards [to] animal welfare.
“Both organisations were given details of the proposed grooming challenges and both were happy to recommend individuals who then became part of the production team.”
The BBC statement continued: “At no point did the animal welfare team feel there was any risk to the dogs’ welfare and all the dogs were monitored throughout to ensure they were happy, did not show signs of stress, that they had sufficient food and water and had adequate rest away from the studio environment.”
Referring specifically to last week’s episodes, which saw the contestants using special chalk to colour the dogs’ coats, the ECU said: “Of the twenty challenges across the series, four made use of some form of limited temporary colour.
“Any use of colour was strictly controlled and only used to highlight the groom and any use of colour was explained and contextualised for each groom. All colour was temporary, animal safe and washed out almost immediately depending on the dog’s coat.”
The BBC also insisted that all outfits used on the animals in the show were “dog friendly” and “checked by the animal welfare team to ensure that they did not restrict the dog’s movements” or “cause them any discomfort”.
“Throughout Pooch Perfect, it is made clear that the contestants are professional groomers and that dog owners should not try these creative grooms at home,” it added.
“Every precaution was taken throughout filming to ensure each individual dog’s welfare and the production team firmly believes every dog was well treated and that no dog was harmed physically or mentally by the process.”
Pooch Perfect was originally an Australian show, hosted by Rebel Wilson.
She is also set to return for the upcoming US version.
Pooch Perfect continues on Thursday night at 8pm on BBC One.