As far back as 1985, developed nations, including Norway (1987), Switzerland (1988), Germany (1992), Israel (2000), Australia (2004), and the U.K.(2006), banned ear cropping and tail docking, but the United States still allows this brutal mutilation for cosmetic purposes.

On July 9, 1999, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) released the following statement: "Ear cropping and tail docking in dogs for cosmetic purposes are not medically indicated nor of benefit to the patient. These procedures can cause pain and distress, and as with all surgical procedures, are accompanied by inherent risks of anesthesia, blood loss, and infection". On November 26th, 2008, they issued a statement that they  "oppose ear cropping and tail docking of dogs when done solely for cosmetic purposes" and "encourage the elimination of ear cropping and tail docking from breed standards". National chains of veterinary hospitals like Banfield, The Pet Hospital, have voluntarily ceased to perform cosmetic surgeries on dogs. The American Humane Association also opposes ear-cropping "unless it is medically necessary, as determined by a licensed veterinarian".

Organizations supporting these outrageous practices claim that ear cropping reduces the risk of infections of the ear canal. This has no scientific basis and, in fact, studies suggest that ear-cropping can be incredibly harmful, possibly leading to infection, deformity and pain, as the ears are cut and taped, and there are risks associated with general anesthesia. These organizations also claim that "tail docking reduces the risk of adult dogs, particularly working dogs, harming their tails". However, a dog's tail is docked regardless of its future as a working dog, a show dog, or a house pet. Tail docking has been scientifically proven to lead to possible pain-related hindrances to the development of the central nervous system, excessive bleeding, infection, delayed healing, necrosis, and behavioral issues due to the dogs' inability to communicate with their tails. Dogs of breeds with docked tails also have a higher incidence of chronic health issues such as incontinence.  

The American Kennel Club (AKC) position is that ear cropping and tail docking are "acceptable practices integral to defining and preserving breed character and/or enhancing good health". The Kennel Club in the UK, however, has banned the exhibition of dogs with cropped ears or docked tails in dog shows as of 2007. 

It is time for the United States to join other developed countries. I urge you to uphold a humane policy in America and forbid ear cropping and tail docking. We should no longer subject our beloved companions to this suffering.