Cosmetic Surgery for Animals
The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) opposes all unnecessary surgical procedures on animals done solely for cosmetic reasons. Cosmetic surgery is surgery done for the purpose of altering the appearance of the animal and not for specific medical reasons or for sterilization.
For these reasons, the ARL opposes tail docking and ear cropping in dogs and tail myotomy and tail neurectomy in horses and any other physical alteration for cosmetic purpose in all species. These practices needlessly subject animals to pain and suffering in addition to the risks inherent in surgery.
Therefore the Animal Rescue League of Boston will:
- Not perform cosmetic surgery on any of the animals in its care.
- Educate the public regarding cosmetic surgery.
- Encourage breed organizations to eliminate cosmetic surgery as part of breed standards.
Click here to read more ARL Policy and Position Statements.