We are calling on Defra to review and amend its blanket ruling that bans dogs with medically docked tails (amputated by a veterinary surgeon for medical reasons such as injury/illness), from competing in events like Crufts where the public pays an entry fee. This rule is unfair, outdated, and deeply discouraging for dog owners and handlers like me who have worked tirelessly to pursue their passion for competitive obedience.

My dog, Gwen, a crossbreed (Vizsla x Dalmatian), had her tail amputated at two years old due to a non-healing wound and two previous breaks. The procedure was necessary to preserve her health and prevent her from enduring constant pain, infection, and potentially life-threatening complications. I have a letter from my vet confirming this. Despite acting in Gwen’s best interest, I now find her unfairly excluded from competing under Defra’s regulations.

Should I have selfishly left her in pain, risking infection and even death, just to comply with a rule I might encounter years down the line? Of course not. Like any responsible owner, I prioritised my dog’s welfare. Defra should be encouraging owners to do the same, but instead, their regulations punish us for making the right choice.

According to Defra’s clarification, docked dogs may only compete at events with a public entry fee if they are certified working dogs being shown for the purpose of demonstrating their working ability (e.g., agility trials). Yet Gwen’s selection to represent Wales in obedience surely demonstrates her working ability. Why is this not recognised as an exemption?

Adding to the inconsistency, other species, such as sheep, are docked and freely shown at public events without restriction. Why are dogs treated differently?

Gwen’s journey to competitive obedience has been a labour of love. I got her as a puppy during COVID-19, initially as my parents’ dog. When their older dog couldn’t cope with a puppy, Gwen came to live with me. With classes unavailable due to lockdowns, I trained her by watching countless videos online. As an A&E nurse working on the frontlines during the pandemic, this training provided me with a much-needed outlet during an incredibly stressful time.

When classes reopened, we pursued formal training, earned our Good Citizen awards, and joined Cardiff GSD Club. Everyone was incredibly supportive, and we were thrilled when Gwen was chosen to represent Team Wales at Crufts. This should have been a moment of pride and achievement, but instead, it has been overshadowed by this unjust rule.

I now feel as though all the time, effort, and energy we’ve invested has been wasted. But I refuse to let this issue go unchallenged. This is why I’m starting this petition – to demand a fairer, more compassionate approach to this rule. Competitive obedience is a wonderful sport that fosters incredible bonds between dogs and their owners. We should be encouraging participation, not discouraging it with outdated and unfair regulations.

Please sign this petition to help us fight for change. Together, we can ensure that responsible dog owners and their beloved companions are no longer penalised for putting their dog’s welfare first. Let’s make this sport accessible, inclusive, and fair for everyone.