Studies on Why Other Countries Have Banned Practice of Debarking Dogs and Declawing Cats
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang’s inquiry regarding whether the Ministry has studied international bans on debarking dogs and declawing cats. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee stated that NParks’ position aligns with jurisdictions like Australia and the United States, which restrict these practices to medical or therapeutic reasons. Under the Code of Ethics for Veterinarians, these procedures are considered unethical unless they serve as a last resort to prevent euthanasia after non-surgical alternatives are exhausted. Failure to follow these regulations may result in written warnings, composition fines, or the suspension and revocation of veterinary licences. Finally, NParks continues to educate pet owners on alternatives and investigates reports of procedures performed without due justification.
Transcript
25 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry has conducted any in-depth studies on why other countries have banned the practice of debarking dogs and declawing cats; (b) if so, what are the results of this review; and (c) if not, why.
Mr Desmond Lee: Due to animal welfare concerns, countries such as Australia, New Zealand and the US, generally, do not encourage or allow debarking of dogs or declawing of cats, except for medical or health reasons or other circumstances. In a few US states, such as New Jersey, Massachusetts and Maryland, the debarking of dogs is prohibited, unless it is carried out on the advice of a licensed veterinarian and for medical reasons. Similarly, in the Australian states of Queensland and Victoria, debarking of dogs and declawing of cats are legally prohibited, unless carried out by a veterinary practitioner for therapeutic reasons.
NParks' position on debarking dogs and declawing cats is aligned with the veterinary practices in these jurisdictions. We take a firm stance against such practices, except under certain circumstances, such as for medical or health reasons. This provides pet owners with an alternative, as opposed to giving up or euthanising the animal. NParks has put in place a framework to regulate such practices.
The Code of Ethics for Veterinarians considers such practices unethical, unless they are performed as an alternative to euthanasia. Under the Code, veterinarians are required to advise pet owners of non-surgical alternatives and to ensure that all reasonable efforts have been made to manage the issue prior to performing such procedures. Failure to do so can result in written warnings, composition fines or suspension or revocation of veterinary licences. NParks will also continue to educate pet owners and raise awareness on alternatives to debarking and declawing.
Should the public come across suspected cases where debarking of dogs and declawing of cats have been performed without due justification, they are encouraged to inform NParks, so that it can investigate and take the necessary actions.