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RSPCA Policy A11 Surgical modification of companion animals

11.1

RSPCA Australia is opposed to the surgical modification of animals for cosmetic or non-therapeutic purposes. The RSPCA considers the following specific procedures to be unnecessary and detrimental to the welfare of the animal concerned:

  • tail docking of dogs
  • ear-cropping of dogs
11.2RSPCA Australia does not support the debarking of dogs to prevent excessive barking unless all other reasonable options have been attempted and the operation is regarded as the only alternative to euthanasia.
11.3RSPCA Australia does not support the removal of claws or teeth in companion animals (including dogs, cats and ferrets) unless it is necessary for the welfare of the animal concerned and is undertaken by a registered veterinarian under appropriate anaesthesia.

(reviewed 26/06/14)

Also Read

Updated on December 9, 2020

RSPCA policies reflect the best available evidence to direct and guide RSPCA and others, to promote and achieve good animal welfare outcomes.

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https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/rspca-policy-a11-surgical-modification-of-companion-animals/

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