Veterinarian Blog

AKC UPSET by AVMA Statement On Cosmetic Surgery For Dogs

by Dr. Chris

February 1, 2009 Recently the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) asked breed clubs to revise breed standards so that they do not include ear cropping and tail docking, which is a great move to put put pressure on these breeders.

This is nothing new, in fact the AVMA has had this philosophy since 1976.

But the AKC says that labeling these procedures as 'cosmetic' mischaracterizes and show a lack of respect of the history and function of purebred dogs.

The AKC has always had a similar reaction to these AVMA policies according to DVM magazine.

Here are some quick facts about ear cropping, tail docking and AKC registered breeds.

> There are 158 registered breeds

> 13 of these breeds are routinely cropped

> In 48 of these breeds tail docking is common

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