Position Statement on Elective (Cosmetic) Surgery

Background

A number of the “breed standards,” as written by the national clubs for various dog breeds, call for cosmetic surgical alterations such as the cropping (cutting away part of the cartilage) of ears and the docking (partial amputation) of tails to “define and preserve breed characteristics.”  Also, some purebred fanciers or handlers – in an effort to improve upon their dogs’ natural tail set or ear carriage –  have resorted to breaking tails, severing tail tendons, or damaging aural cartilage. These procedures are sometimes performed by individuals other than veterinarians, without anesthesia or pain medication. 

The ASPCA does not believe that companion animals should be subjected to cosmetic or other surgical procedures that are unrelated to their health or well-being, including ear-cropping and tail-docking. The ASPCA supports the elimination of ear cropping and tail docking from breed standards and supports legislation banning such procedures when they are unrelated to health or well-being.

Note: The ASPCA opposes invasive cosmetic procedures in equines.