DOG LOVERS LOBBY MP

They say the proposal to ban all tail docking could result in working dogs sustaining serious injury when they work in dense, prickly undergrowth.

The Countryside Alliance is recommending that vets be allowed to continue the procedure for working breeds, saying that a blanket ban on tail docking would in fact be highly detrimental to animal welfare.

Mr Baker is a member of the Animal Welfare Bill Committee, currently scrutinising the Bill in preparation for its report stage and third reading.

He came out to meet the delegation of dogs and owners and said he would take heed of the comments made in the letters he was given.

'I am not 100 per cent decided on my views concerning the tail docking of working dogs,' he said, promising to look again at the issue.

Peter Setterfield, regional director of the Countryside Alliance, said: 'The purpose of tail docking in certain types of working dogs such as spaniels and terriers is to prevent injuries caused to the tips of their tails as they work in thick cover.

'It is not a cosmetic procedure; these injuries are not only extremely painful for the dog but also very slow to heal.

'Some end up having their tails amputated which is quite traumatic for an older dog.

'This is yet another example of the Government having no understanding of rural issues and once again bringing in legislation which will ultimately be harmful to animals.'