My name is Savannah, and I am a 7th grader from Colorado who believes in the rights of animals. I am undertaking a Passion Pursuit project for school, and my focus is on preventing cruel practices such as ear cropping and tail docking in dogs. As an animal lover, it saddens me to see these procedures being performed purely for aesthetic purposes without considering the pain inflicted on these innocent creatures.

Ear cropping and tail docking are not harmless cosmetic procedures; they have serious implications for a dog's health and wellbeing. For instance, when a dog's tail is docked at an early age, it can significantly alter their perception of pain later in life (American Veterinary Medical Association). This means that our pursuit of aesthetics could be causing lifelong discomfort to our beloved pets.

Moreover, these procedures are largely unnecessary. The American Animal Hospital Association states that they "offer no benefit to the pet" and "these surgeries are associated with inherent risks of anesthesia, blood loss, infection."

It's time we put an end to this needless suffering. We need legislation that protects dogs from such invasive procedures carried out solely for human vanity. By signing this petition you're supporting a future where dogs aren't subjected to painful alterations against their will.

This has already been outlawed in other countries, so there is no reason not to outlaw this cruelty in Colorado, and the United States as a whole. 

I urge you all - fellow students, teachers, parents - anyone who believes in animal welfare - to sign this petition today. Let us stand together against ear cropping and tail docking in Colorado!