New data from the RSPCA shows that 10 dogs in Buckinghamshire underwent a procedure which the charity has labelled as ‘cruel and unnecessary’. The welfare charity has revealed that 1,100 dogs have undergone the procedure of having their ears cropped in the UK since 2020.
RSPCA has called ear-cropping ‘barbaric’. In many cases, it is carried out illegally in the UK for the aim of making the dogs look ‘tough’.
Research shows the process has no benefits for the animals and can be detrimental to their health. Overall, 1,191 cases were reported to the charity.
Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “Ear cropping is a painful and unnecessary practice in which a dogs’ ears are removed or surgically altered and sadly many owners who do this do it because they think the look is glamorous or it makes their pet look tough.”
Despite it being illegal in the UK, there are social media accounts which promote the practice. Dogs that do undergo the procedure are at a high risk of infection and discomfort due to the after effects.
It can lead to puppies being sold for more money, and some owners are not even aware the procedure is illegal.
