A rapidly-growing petition is currently underway in the UK to halt the alarming rise in illegal ear cropping of dogs. While this practice is already illegal in the UK, it remains wildly popular, and illegal ‘croppers’ are seemingly not difficult to find. In fact, from 2015 to 2020, the rise in reports of ear croppings in the area increased by 621%. This is believed to be largely due to celebrities posting social media images of their pups who have had the procedure done.
The petition campaign, hashtagged #FlopNotCrop, has reached over 100,000 signatures and is now moving through government channels to be addressed.
What is Ear Cropping?
This is a purely cosmetic procedure that has been traditionally popular with breeds like Dobermanns. Ear cropping involves cutting off the floppy part of a dog’s ears, and then taping them to a hard surface for several weeks, similar to a splint, so they heal in a fixed, upright position. This procedure is most commonly performed on dogs between the ages of 6 and 12 weeks, using anaesthetic.
Aside from the cosmetic reasons for ear cropping, some dog owners contest the practice can prevent ear infections. However, research clearly shows approximately 80% of all dogs will never experience an ear infection in their lifetime. The breeds that are most prone to ear infections are not breeds that are likely to have their ears cropped in the first place.
In England, ear cropping has been illegal since 1899. However, it is still legal to own dogs who have had their ears altered, whether through rescue or by purchasing imported dogs who have already had their ears cropped. This loophole has led to lax rules, allowing those performing the procedure illegally in the UK to fly under the radar.
What is Tail Docking?
This procedure, which has become decidedly controversial over the last decade, involves removing part or all of a dog’s tail, and is usually done with surgical scissors shortly after birth. Tail docking is commonly performed without anaesthesia, and is considered to be excruciatingly painful. Veterinarians willing to perform this procedure often rationalize that because the puppy is still very young and not entirely alert, the experience will not be remembered.
Tail docking can develop into nerve tumours, causing lifelong pain. This procedure also interferes with a dog’s ability to express him or herself, and to interact effectively with other dogs through body language.
While mostly cosmetic, some argue that particular breeds, such as boxers or certain types of working dogs are more prone to tail injuries due to over-excitement. However, research has shown that this is highly unlikely, and that tail injuries among dogs are statistically minor and quick-healing.
For both of these practices, the American Kennel Club argues that they are “integral to defining and preserving breed character” in particular breeds. On the other hand, the American Medical Association opposes both practices, calling them unnecessary medical risks. Thankfully, veterinarian networks in the USA have reported a sharp decrease in requests for these procedures over the last decade.
In Canada, there is no federal law banning cosmetic surgery in pets. However, some provinces have taken it upon themselves to regulate these procedures. Newfoundland, PEI, and Nova Scotia have all made these procedures illegal. In New Brunswick, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec, governing veterinary associations have banned veterinarians in their network from performing cosmetic surgeries on animals. In Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Manitoba, ear cropping is banned by the provincial government, and these provinces are open to banning tail docking, too.
Ontario remains the only province that does not regulate tail docking or ear cropping. Cosmetic procedures have been proven to have no medical benefit, however there is evidence showing they can cause behavioural problems and acute chronic pain. Why has the provincial government not taken action on something that affects the welfare of animals in our communities?
Brandon Forder, known as The Pet Expert, is vice-president of Canadian Pet Connection, an industry leader in healthy pet lifestyles. Brandon is certified in pet nutrition, and has more than twenty-five years’ experience specializing in pet health and behaviour. He has written hundreds of informative pet-related articles for newspapers, magazines, radio, and the popular Ask the Pet Expert Blog. Brandon is highly skilled in pet problem solving, and enjoys teaching others about smart and responsible pet ownership. To learn more, visit www.CanadianPetConnection.ca.
