Dog - Docking
From 1st May 2007 the docking of puppies’ and dogs’ tails was prohibited in England, Wales and Scotland.
Exemptions cover certain working breeds and also if performed as a veterinary necessity. There is also a ban on the showing of any dogs docked after this date at events to which members of the public are admitted. The ban does not apply to exempted dogs of the working breeds that are being shown in order to demonstrate their working ability.
The exemption for working dogs allows a dog that is likely to perform certain specified types of work to have the tail docked by a veterinary surgeon before the puppy is five days old and must be subsequently identifiable by microchip. The vet must also sign a declaration that all the requirements of the regulations have been satisfied.
Therefore if you are expecting a litter from a bitch of one of the exempted breeds it is advisable in the first instance to contact your breed club or association in order to ensure you have all the necessary documentation. DEFRA will also supply up-to-date details.
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