B. C. vets seek ban on cropping dogs’ ears

Sleek cropped ears may soon be a thing of the past on Dobermans and other breeds if B. C. veterinarians follow Manitoba’s lead and ban the practice.

Detractors say the procedure is merely cosmetic, and causes unnecessary pain to canines, who have no say in the matter.

Similar bans have been enacted in Newfoundland and Labrador, and many European countries.

Cherie Holmes, president of the Doberman Pinscher Club of Canada, said the procedure is not just a cosmetic indulgence, but contributes to the health and functionality of dogs’ ears.

“All wild dogs have pricked, standup ears because it gives better air flow, the ears can pivot and catch the sound and do their job.”

Falling ears can leave dogs prone to ear infections, she said.

In Dobermans, the “falling” ears are partly a result of a century of genetic selection to develop a uniquely alert, loyal, and trainable domestic breed, she said.

Cropping, in which a thin membrane on the outside of the ear is removed, allows the ears to stand up.

Ken Gummeson, president of the College of Veterinarians of BC, said there is widespread support of an ear- docking ban among vets in the province.

“We did have a discussion about this at a general meeting last year, and there was a very large amount of interest. We got a clear message that we wanted to pursue it.”

Gummeson said the college will be hearing recommendations from its animal welfare committee when it next meets on March 3.

If the committee recommends banning the procedure, the next step is a mail- in bylaw vote.

“Ear cropping is strictly cosmetic, there is no medical benefit, it is only done to change the look of the patient,” he said.

If it were put to a vote today, Gummeson said he would vote for a ban.

The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association banned the practice this month, saying the procedure is unnecessary and causes pain and distress to dogs.

Gummeson was present at the meeting in Manitoba, and said the vote was passed by an overwhelming majority.

Holmes said there is a danger that some dog owners will be driven underground to seek the procedure either in the United States, or through unscrupulous providers. “We are really concerned.”

Holmes hopes that before a vote is taken in B. C., there will be some consultation with breeders. She added that ideally the falling ears issue could be corrected through breeding, but that will take generations.