At Cashel District Court on 5th October 2023, a 20-year-old man with an address in Fethard, Co Tipperary, admitted docking the tails of six Terrier puppies contrary to the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 and the associated Prohibition on Tail Docking and Dew Claw Removal Regulations (Dogs) 2014.
Judge Cephas Power heard evidence from ISPCA Senior Inspector Alice Lacey who described calling to the defendant’s home on 4th November 2022 and viewing a number of dogs including the six docked pups. Under caution, the defendant admitted cutting the pups’ tails off, claiming that he thought it was legal as they were hunting dogs. Inspector Lacey told the court that the pups were surrendered into the care of the ISPCA.
After hearing an apology from the defendant, Judge Power imposed a €500 fine and ordered that the defendant pay legal and veterinary costs of €1535.68.
“The act of interfering with the soft tissue and bone structure of a dog is an extremely cruel and unnecessary mutilation,” said Inspector Lacey. “Dogs were not born with tails to have them removed at birth – they serve a purpose and are important for maintaining balance and also communication with humans, animals and other dogs. Thankfully, all 6 puppies in this case went on to find new and loving homes”.
Despite the fact that tail docking by laypersons has been criminalised since 2014, ISPCA Inspectors continue to take possession of puppies while investigating reports of illegal tail docking across the country. 11 such puppies have been removed by ISPCA Inspectors in the past two weeks.
“This is a timely opportunity to remind the public that the docking of the tails of dogs by a layperson is illegal and perpetrators can face prosecution for animal cruelty” commented ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling, “people may claim to be unaware that tail docking is prohibited, but ignorance is no defence under the law. If you dock the tail of a puppy, you are committing a crime and could be liable to be prosecuted for animal mutilation. We have further criminal cases pending in relation to tail docking”.
The ISPCA cannot turn our back on animals that need to be removed from terrible situations like this one and we need support now more than ever before. A kind donation will help the ISPCA continue to rescue and care for neglected animals and find them loving homes. If you can, please donate online at https://stg.ispca.ie/donations/
