The Ontario government is considering changes to the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act, seeking public feedback on proposed bans on certain non-essential veterinary procedures for cats and dogs. The proposed changes target three surgeries: feline declawing, ear cropping in dogs, and devocalization, which removes vocal cords.
Animal welfare advocates express surprise over the exclusion of tail docking from the proposed ban, emphasizing the need to address this practice that involves amputating puppies’ tails for cosmetic reasons. Critics argue that tail docking poses risks to the health and well-being of young animals, including the potential for infections and chronic pain.
Drew Woodley of the Ontario SPCA highlights the importance of including tail docking in the ban, urging the government to reconsider its exclusion. Despite the omission in Ontario, veterinary associations in other parts of the country have already prohibited cosmetic surgeries among their members.
The public has until February 5, 2026, to provide feedback on the proposed changes, which do not specify the timeline for implementation if approved.