An MP is calling on film, television, and media outlets to cease depicting dogs with cropped ears, following a concerning rise in reported cases of the practice in recent years. Dr. Neil Hudson, a veterinary surgeon and Conservative MP for Epping, Essex, has written an open letter urging industry leaders to take action. The letter has garnered the support of 21 of his Conservative colleagues in Westminster.
Dr. Hudson condemned ear cropping, which was made illegal in the UK in 2006, as a “horrific, cruel, and clinically unnecessary practice.” He highlighted that while the procedure is banned in the UK, it remains legal in some other countries, contributing to an alarming trend. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) reported that cases of ear cropping have increased by more than 2,000% over the past decade.
The Cruelty Behind Ear Cropping
Ear cropping involves the surgical removal or alteration of a dog’s ears, often performed purely for cosmetic reasons. According to Dr. Hudson, this painful procedure is frequently carried out without proper veterinary care or pain relief, leaving dogs vulnerable to unnecessary suffering.
“The demand for cropped-eared dogs may be fueled by media portrayals, which can mislead the public into thinking the practice is acceptable,” Dr. Hudson warned. He stressed that ear cropping provides no benefit to the dog’s health, behavior, or welfare and can actually have long-term negative effects.
David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, echoed these concerns, urging people not to perpetuate the demand for dogs with cropped ears. “The only way to stop this is by not buying into the trend,” he said.
Hollywood’s Influence on the Trend
Dr. Hudson pointed to popular films, such as Disney Pixar’s Up (2009) and Warner Bros’ DC League of Super-Pets (2022), which feature dogs with cropped ears. He believes that the inclusion of such images in media could normalize the practice, making it appear acceptable to audiences. In addition, the 2025 Best in Show winner at the Westminster Kennel Club also had cropped ears, highlighting the continued prominence of the trend, particularly in the U.S., where ear cropping is still legal.
Legislation to Address the Issue
A bill addressing the importation of low-welfare animals, including dogs, cats, and ferrets, is currently being processed in the UK Parliament. Dr. Hudson hopes that this legislation will help curb the influx of animals subjected to inhumane practices like ear cropping.
The letter also referenced the Cinematograph Films (Animals) Act 1937, which prohibits the use of animals subjected to cruelty during film production. Dr. Hudson and his colleagues are calling for the Act to be used more effectively to prevent the portrayal of cropped-eared dogs in films and other media.
The BBC has reached out to major media organizations, including Disney Pixar, Warner Bros, and DC Entertainment, for comment on the issue.
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