2 December 2005

American Judge points the way on tail docking

The NZ Kennel Club welcomes the news that a Superior Court Judge in California has thrown out West Hollywood's by-law banning tail docking of new-born puppies. The city passed a by-law banning docking in 2003.

The Court agreed with the California Veterinary Medical Association's statement that state law prevents the city from enacting such a by-law.

“The NZ Kennel Club congratulates the Californian vets for their stand and for acknowledging that the breeder is the person with the knowledge and experience to make the decision whether or not to dock the tail of new-born puppies,” said Lesley Chalmers, President of the NZ Kennel Club.

“The New Zealand Veterinary Association would do well to follow the lead of their American counterpart.

“The breeder must retain the freedom of choice to make the best decision for their dogs.

“Responsible dog owners agree that there should continue to be freedom of choice.

“We hope that the New Zealand Parliament will listen, and quickly throw out Dianne Yates' private member's bill, Animal Welfare Amendment Bill, which would ban tail docking outright.

“New Zealand MPs can look to both the Californian Superior Court and the British Government which, in its new Animal Welfare Bill, is retaining the status quo where the breeder decides whether or not to dock.

The NZ Kennel Club is the premier organisation of responsible dog owners and has around 300 member clubs throughout the country. It organises events including pedigree dog shows, obedience competitions, and agility events (think of TUX Wonder Dogs presented by Mark Leishman on TV.) The Club speaks out as the voice of responsible dog owners on issues affecting people and their dogs.

ENDS

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