The practise of animal tail docking is a topic of much debate among law makers, veterinarians, animal welfare organizations and breeders.
There are a variety of reasons someone might dock animal tails. For example, the docking of pig tails prevents tail biting.
Most of the debate about tail docking is in regards to dogs, and dog breeding competitions in general.
So let’s take a further examination of the question “Can I legally dock tails in Alberta?”
Can you dock tails in Alberta?
The answer is yes, you can still legally dock tails in Alberta. There is no Canada wide law, or Provincial law against it.
However, in 2019, members of the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA), voted to ban this service.
It is legal to dock tails, but you can’t get a veterinarian to perform it for you. They banned all medically unnecessary and cosmetic procedures that can cause harm and distress.
The Canadian Kennel Club allows for docked tails, put it is not a requirement to participate.
It should be noted that the issue enters a grey area when it comes to animal cruelty and abuse.
The same day that they passed the ban, they also voted to ensure that veterinarians are obligated to report animal abuse and neglect.
Some people have argued that this includes distress that results from tail docking. It may come down to the particular vet on a case by case scenario.
The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) banned tail docking in Alberta, but they also banned the following:
- Ear Cropping
- Piercings
- Tattoos (Other than required identification tattoos)
- Declawing
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Debarking and Devocalization
In Summary
- You can legally dock tails in Alberta.
- There is technically no law specifically outlawing animal tail docking in Alberta.
- Alberta Veterinarians voted to pass their own ban on performing tail docking, ear cropping, and other procedures they have deemed medically unnecessary.
- They also agreed to report any cases of animal neglect, abuse and cruelty.
- The debate continues if this includes tail docking.
