Many concerned fanciers are by now aware that officials in West Hollywood, California are considering a city ordinance to ban ear cropping, tail docking and other non-therapeutic measures. AKC has been actively working with California fanciers and parent clubs to oppose the measure. The California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) shared AKC’s concern over the proposed ordinance because they believe it to be in violation of the state’s Veterinary Medical Practice Act. The Act clearly states that local governments cannot enact legislation that is already regulated by a state agency, as is the case with veterinary medicine. Questions were raised as to whether passage of West Hollywood’s proposal could result in legal challenges against the city.

In response to this situation, Asm. Paul Koretz, whose district includes West Hollywood, has introduced AB418, a state bill to ban ear cropping. Such legislation, if allowed to pass, would secure a ban on ear cropping in West Hollywood—and indeed all over the state—and would not be considered a violation of the Practice Act.

Fanciers in California and nationwide fought tirelessly last summer to defeat a similar ear cropping bill. AB418 differs from that bill in that it bans ear cropping only. It further addresses many of the fancy’s 2004 concerns in that it does not prohibit showing, owning, selling, buying or adopting a dog with cropped ears. This language was almost certainly included in order to reduce opposition to the bill.

Some fanciers have questioned why they should oppose AB418 given the exemptions noted above. “As long as I can own and show a cropped dog, is there really a problem?” Yes, in fact there is. Once the government decides ear cropping procedures should be banned, it is likely that they will revisit the legality of simply owning a cropped dog in the very near future. It won’t stop there, however. That’s because AB418 sets a dangerous negative precedent by allowing the government to slowly have more and more control over how responsible owners keep and enjoy their dogs. This slippery slope may only address ear cropping today, but tail docking, spaying and neutering, and a host of other issues will not be far behind. It is the principle, not just the procedure, to which AKC and responsible fanciers must be opposed. For more information on how you can help, please visit the Legislative Alerts here and here.