Hi,
Ok , defra rules state thet a dog docked after Aprill 2007 can't be shown where a spectators entrance fee is charged, such as crufts, Olympia etc unless the dog is demonstrating it working ability.
I have been looking into working cockers and wondered if a legaly docked dog qualified for one of these events, can they be run? Or does the working bit only cover gundog aspects?
Defra rules below.
Tail DockingTail Docking of Dogs (85kb - pdf)
This information applies to England only.
The docking of dogs’ tails has been banned in England since 6 April 2007.
There are exemptions from the ban for certain types of working dog, or where docking is performed for medical treatment.
There is also a ban on the showing of dogs docked after this date at events where members of the public have paid an entrance fee. This ban does not apply where a dog is shown only for the purpose of demonstrating its working ability.
The exemption allows certain types of working dog to have their tails docked by a veterinary surgeon. The dog has to be no more than 5 days old and the veterinary surgeon must certify that he or she has seen evidence that the dog is likely to work in one of the specified areas.
Owners and keepers wishing to have a working dog’s tail docked must ensure that this is undertaken in accordance with the law.
To access the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and The Docking of Working Dogs’ Tails (England) Regulations 2007 visit the Office of Public Sector Information.
I would love if someone can clarify for me
Jac x