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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 4, 2021 03:10 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative MaryLouise Isaacson |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Animal Abuse: Ear Cropping |
| Believing to have originated in ancient Rome, ear cropping was first instituted to prevent injury to the ears of dogs raised for hunting, working, or fighting. Now, most ear cropping surgeries are performed on puppies destined for the show arena or as a medical intervention to lower the risk of ear infections. An intense procedure, ear cropping requires anesthesia and weeks of aftercare by the dog’s owner. When done correctly by a licensed veterinarian, as required by current law, cropped ears will heal without infection; unfortunately, there are some individuals who feel it unnecessary to go through the proper routes when cropping their dog’s ears. My legislation aims to protect our furry friends by increasing the penalty for ear cropping if not done properly by a licensed veterinarian from a summary offense to a third-degree misdemeanor. Subsequent offenses would constitute a second-degree misdemeanor. Improperly done ear cropping can cause severe pain and infection to puppies, an abuse that must be taken seriously. Increasing the penalties for not having a dog’s ears cropped by a veterinarian as required by current law will show those who wish to skirt the law that we will not stand down. Please support the safety and well-being of our four-legged family members by co-sponsoring this legislation. |
Introduced as HB506