'Ignorance is no defence' - 20-year-old fined for docking tails of puppies in Tipperary

A 20-year-old Tipperary man has been convicted and fined for docking the tails of six Terrier puppies. 

According to the ISPCA (Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the man reportedly admitted to the offence at Cashel District Court this month (October 2023). 

The practice is contrary to the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 and the associated Prohibition on Tail Docking and Dew Claw Removal Regulations (Dogs) 2014. 

Evidence was reportedly provided by ISPCA Senior Inspector, Alice Lacey, who described calling to the defendant’s home in November 2022 and viewing a number of dogs including the six docked puppies. 

The 20-year-old reportedly claimed that he thought it was legal as they were hunting dogs. 

The puppies have since been surrendered into the care of the ISPCA. 

After hearing an apology from the defendant, the Judge imposed a €500 fine and ordered the defendant to pay legal and veterinary costs of €1535.68. 

Inspector Lacey commented, stating, "The act of interfering with the soft tissue and bone structure of a dog is an extremely cruel and unnecessary mutilation. 

"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." 

According to the ISPCA, inspectors continue to take possession of puppies whose tails have been docked by laypeople despite its criminalisation in 2014.  

Eleven puppies have been removed by ISPCA inspectors nationwide just in the past two weeks. 

ISPCA Chief Inspector Conor Dowling also commented and said, "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.

"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." 

On their official website, the ISPCA stated, "[We] 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." 

Anyone eager to donate to the ISPCA to help them continue their rescue work can do so by clicking here.