Kennel Club issues stern warning over 'sabotage'

"The facts surrounding Jagger’s sad death are still being established and we must stress that any other unsubstantiated rumours about dogs being poisoned are just that at this point.

There are any number of reasons why a dog may display symptoms such as sickness and should a dog fall sick there are vets at the show who will examine the dog in question and file a report.

We can confirm that no vets have raised concerns about poisoning and there have been no official complaints from any owners at Crufts 2015.

"We are aware that there are reports in the press regarding a number of breeds. If anybody has any have any information we urge anyone to come forward to report the matter as soon as possible by emailing press.office@thekennelclub.org.uk.

"As with any international competition rumours of sabotage do occasionally surface. This of course is not in the spirit of competition and will not be tolerated.

Anyone caught attempting to deliberately sabotage another competitor’s performance, particularly if a dog’s welfare is put at risk, will face severe disciplinary procedures which could include a ban on competing at all Kennel Club licensed events.

Furthermore anyone who puts a dog’s welfare at risk could face prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act.”