Ban on debarking

14.9.2010

Question for written answer E-7508/2010
to the Commission
Rule 117
Christel Schaldemose (S&D)

Debarking is a surgical procedure performed on dogs for the complete or partial removal of their vocal cords. Dogs can then no longer bark or otherwise express their natural instincts.

Several European countries have banned the procedure unless it is required on specific veterinary grounds. Regrettably, the rules are being circumvented in that dog breeders can have the procedure performed outside Europe (typically in Canada) or dogs are imported which have already been debarked.

Is the Commission aware of this problem, and does it intend to intervene?

A possible solution might be to ban the import and showing of dogs on which this brutal and unethical procedure has been performed.

OJ C 243 E, 20/08/2011