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RSPCA urges Government to ban import of cropped ear dogs
A stray dog called Henry, had his ears cropped before being rescued in May 2022.

87 per cent of people support a ban.

The RSPCA is urging the Government to ban the importation of dogs with cropped ears, and new research undertaken by the charity has revealed that 87 per cent of those surveyed would support the move.

With limited progress on the Kept Animals Bill since November 2021, The RSPCA and Welsh charity, Hope Rescue have launched the Mutilated for Money campaign to highlight the laws on ear cropping, and welfare issues the procedure can cause dogs. 

As part of the campaign, the charities are encouraging people to write to their local MP, asking for urgent action on the issue.

Ear cropping is illegal in the UK, but it is not illegal to import a dog with cropped ears. This makes it difficult to prove illegal cropping in this country, and also enables owners to source dogs with cropped ears from abroad.

In 2022, the RSPCA’s helpline received 391 reports of dogs with cropped ears, and it has received 124 reports so far in 2023. 

Dr Sam Gaines, head of the RSPCA’s companion animals team, said: “Sadly, our rescuers continue to frequently see dogs who are suffering as a result of ear cropping - so regulations in the UK which will ban the importation of dogs with cropped ears will be so important."

A stray dog called Henry, had his ears cropped before arriving at Hope Rescue in May 2022. A member of the public had found him unable to stand and emaciated. The charity’s senior head of operations, Vanessa Waddon, said: “We’re deeply concerned about the increasing number of ear-cropped dogs coming into our care. In the last 12 months alone, we have taken in 12 ear-cropped dogs. 

“Ear-cropping is a totally unnecessary and traumatic procedure, and its only purpose is to satisfy demand for a certain look. Poor Henry didn’t deserve to have his ears mutilated. 

“We are urging the public to not buy into this cruelty and take action if they suspect illegal ear-cropping. We’re also urging the UK Government to close the loophole that allows importation of ear-cropped dogs and bring back the Kept Animals Bill before time runs out.”

Image (C) RSPCA

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
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Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.