Many dog owners prefer ear cropping for their dogs; the procedure usually highlights the standard look of breeds such as Doberman pinschers and Great Danes. Other owners say ear cropping reduces tears in the ears of working breeds, such as terriers. In the state of Pennsylvania, only licensed veterinarians may perform this procedure.
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Ear Cropping by Veterinarians
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Ear cropping of dogs is legal only if a certified veterinarian performs the procedure. The procedure may include trimming, cropping or cutting off both of the dog's ears or just a part of the their ears. The veterinarian must anesthetize the dog and record the procedure. Veterinarians are prohibited from denying or preventing individuals from seeking this procedure for their dogs.
Cruelty to Animals
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According to Pennsylvania's consolidated statutes, ear cropping is considered a summary offense by anyone other than a certified veterinarian. An individual who undertakes the ear cropping of dogs, or is in possession of a dog who has infected incisions from ear cropping, is in violation of Pennsylvania's Cruelty to Animals Laws. This summary offense is punishable with fines from $50 to $750, a jail sentence of up to three months or both.
Agents for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
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Under Pennsylvania law, agents and representatives of organizations for the prevention of cruelty to animals have the same judicial powers as Commonwealth of Pennsylvania police officers. These agents may initiate criminal proceedings against anyone violating the ear-cropping statute. These agents may also seize a dog showing signs of infection or distress due to ear cropping.
Search Warrants
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If ear cropping is suspected on or within a property other than a veterinarian's surgery, police officers or agents representing organizations for the prevention of cruelty to animals may issue a search warrant for evidence of the offense. If these agents of the Pennsylvania Commonwealth find sufficient evidence of a violation of the ear-cropping statute, they may seize the dog and, in cases of severe infection and neglect, may be authorized to provide for the humane destruction of the dog. The dog owner would be responsible for all expenses incurred during this process.
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