Tail docking

5 July 2013

The RSPCA believes that cosmetic tail docking is a painful and totally unnecessary tradition and had long campaigned for ban on this cruel practice.

tail docking fashion victim It has been is illegal to dock dogs' tails anywhere in Australia since 2004, unless there is a medical reason behind the operation. Only a qualified veterinarian is permitted to carry out the surgery, in accordance with state and territory legislation.

There are over 70 breeds of dog that traditionally have their tails cut off a few days after birth. Many people think that dogs of docked breeds are born with short tails - this is not true! The reason some breeds and not others are docked is simply because of the fashion set for that particular breed.

There are a few breeds that may be born with a naturally short tail, such as the Stumpy-tailed Cattledog, Boston Terrier or French Bulldog.

Find out more: Why is the RSPCA opposed to the tail docking of dogs?

Latest

RSPCA WA pays tribute to lifesaving animals for ANZAC Day

A speech by Army veteran Owen about how his assistance dog, Fenn, has transformed his life was the centrepiece of a special ANZAC Day ceremony hosted by RSPCA WA today.
Dog groomer fined for animal cruelty

A 31-year-old Champion Lakes woman will have to pay $7,500 in fines and costs for slapping, forcefully throwing and otherwise roughly handling a dog during a grooming session.
Community Action Day - Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Free dog health checks, free flea and worming treatments and free pet food for families who might be experiencing financial hardship.
RSPCA WA Pet Census – It's all love despite rising costs

Almost three quarters of WA pet owners celebrate their pet’s birthday, RSPCA WA’s annual pet census found, with over half saying their pet’s biggest impact in life is providing love and companionship.

Dog groomer fined for animal cruelty

A 31-year-old Champion Lakes woman will have to pay $7,500 in fines and costs for slapping, forcefully throwing and otherwise roughly handling a dog during a grooming session.
RSPCA WA foster care far from a drag

RSPCA WA recently published a Facebook post to attract much-needed foster carers for about 30 Burmese cats who were all named after drag queens. The response was overwhelming, with many of the cats now in homes.
Treatment of sick old dog 'outrageous' and 'disgusting'

In Midland Magistrates Court today a 54-year-old Eden Hill man was sentenced to six-months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, for failing to seek medical care for his 18-year-old Labrador-cross named Bear. He was also prohibited from owning animals for five years.
Cost-of-living continues to bite WA pet owners

West Australian pet owners continue to feel the bite of the cost-of-living and housing crises, with both issues major contributors to a more than 40 percent jump in surrender requests.
Alleged failure to seek care for 18yo dog with large tumour

A 54-year-old Midland man has been charged with animal cruelty after allegedly failing to seek medical care for his 18-year-old Labrador-cross dog.
$6k fine for owner who starved horses to 'skin and bone'

A 40-year-old woman from Champion Lakes has been fined a total of $6,000 for starving her two horses until they were ‘skin and bone’.
Make this Easter a safe one for your four-legged friend

RSPCA WA is urging pet owners to keep a close eye on their animals around chocolate this Easter following a shocking rise in calls to the Animal Poisons Helpline last year.
Million Paws Walk cancelled amid economic pressures

RSPCA WA has made the heartbreaking decision to cancel this year’s Million Paws Walk amid increasing cost-of-living pressures and mounting demands for the organisation’s services.
Man allegedly hid puppy after she suffered broken pelvis

A 46-year-old man has been charged with animal cruelty after he allegedly failed to seek appropriate veterinary care for his puppy who had been hit by a car. It is also alleged he then tried to hide the puppy from RSPCA WA.
Million Paws Walk 2024 FAQ's

Million Paws Walk is an iconic event and a strong brand for the RSPCA with many staff, volunteers, supporters and donors having enjoyed it over the last 25 years in WA. However, the simple fact is that although it is RSPCA WA’s biggest annual fundraising event, ever increasing costs mean it is now prohibitive to stage such a large-scale activity.