Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 18th April 2023
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

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

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.