The ethics and health consequences of ear and tail cropping in dogs

Cropping the ears and tails of dogs is a bad practice because it is unnecessarily painful and traumatic to the animal, may lead to infection or other health problems, and it interferes with communication with other dogs and people.

Cropping ears and tails on dogs is very painful for the animal, but unlike some procedures which are beneficial and necessary, this pain is unnecessary.

There are no health benefits to ear and tail cropping.

False claims made about the health benefits of cropping

Debunking false claims

The procedure is very painful.

Nerve endings in ears and tail

Painful scarring

Improper anesthesia and procedures are common

Traumatic for the puppy

The pain can be interpreted as betrayal or punishment.

The puppy will be hindered in developing relationship with others

Pain may interfere with puppy's eating or other behaviors at a crucial time in development

Cropping ears and tails can lead to infections and other serious health problems.

A. Improper procedures are commonly practiced, even by licensed veterinarians.

1. Too much ear or tail removed

2. Improper medication

3. Improper sanitization

4. Risk of anesthesia errors can be fatal

B. Nerve damage can be more than expected, especially when procedure is "botched."

1. Facial paralysis

2. Chronic pain or "phantom" sensations

3. Nerve damage may extend through body.

C. Infection

'1. Infection can lead to illness or death from site of amputation

2. Ears more prone to infection and infestation after cropped

3. Immune system can be permanently damaged from trauma

III. Cropped ears and tails on dogs will interfere with the animal's ability to communicate with other animals and with people.

A. Why ears and tails started being cropped

1. Historical

2. Dog fighting today