Simone Biles’ dog breeder is facing significant backlash after cropping the ears and docking the tail of her new Doberman Pinscher. The breeder, who spoke to TMZ Sports, reported receiving death threats as a result of this decision, which he describes as a “common practice” in certain dog breeding circles.
The controversy began when images of the newly acquired puppy surfaced online, prompting a wave of criticism from animal rights advocates and dog lovers. Many have expressed their disapproval of ear cropping, which involves surgically altering the ears to make them stand erect, and tail docking, which is the removal of a portion of the tail. Critics argue that these procedures are unnecessary and can cause undue pain and distress to the animals.
In his defense, the breeder emphasized that these practices are often performed for aesthetic reasons in specific breeds, including the Doberman Pinscher. He noted that many breeders and owners view these alterations as part of maintaining breed standards. However, the backlash has raised questions about the ethics of such procedures, especially given the growing movement against cosmetic surgeries on pets.
The intense public reaction has taken a toll on the breeder, who revealed that the death threats have left him feeling unsafe. He underscored that while he understands the strong feelings surrounding the issue, he believes there should be a more constructive dialogue about breed standards and care practices.
Animal welfare organizations have reiterated their stance against ear cropping and tail docking, advocating for laws that ban these procedures in many regions. In the United States, the legality of ear cropping varies by state, with some states implementing restrictions on the practice.
As discussions continue, the incident highlights the ongoing debate regarding animal rights and breeding practices. It also underscores the responsibility breeders have to ensure the well-being of the animals in their care, as public sentiment increasingly favors humane and ethical treatment.
In the wake of this controversy, Biles has not publicly commented on the situation. The issue remains a contentious topic among pet owners, breeders, and animal rights advocates, drawing attention to the complexities of pet ownership and the standards of care that accompany it.
