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, in an effort to improve upon their dogs’ natural tail set or ear carriage, some purebred fanciers or handlers have resorted to breaking the tails or severing tail tendons, or damaging aural cartilage. Liposuction and Botox® treatments may be employed to improve an animal’s appearance. These procedures are sometimes performed by individuals other than veterinarians, without anesthesia or pain medication. Still other surgeries, such as debarking dogs and declawing cats, are performed as elective procedures to protect household furniture or eliminate unwanted behavior. Any of these elective or “cosmetic” procedures expose the animal to the risk of anesthesia and possible complications of surgery.

ASPCA Position
The ASPCA is opposed to elective surgeries that are undertaken solely to conform to breed standards, including cropping ears and docking tails. Additionally, the ASPCA is opposed to the use of surgical procedures such as declawing, debarking, and olfactory tractotomy to eliminate undesirable behaviors. These types of surgery should be considered only when behavior modification has been ineffective and euthanasia or abandonment will result if the behavior does not cease. Testicular implants for male dogs are acceptable if inserted at the same time that the dog is neutered. Declawing can be considered when the health and safety of other animals, human beings or the individual cat is at stake. In every instance a licensed veterinarian should perform the surgery, and appropriate pain relief should be provided.