CHE LORD FROM GLASTONBURY CAUGHT ILLEGALLY CROPPING PUPPIES' EARS IN SOMERSET

In a recent court case, Che Osiris Lord, a resident of Meare Road in Glastonbury, was found guilty of arranging for three puppies to undergo the painful and illegal procedure of ear cropping. The incident took place in December 2020, and the case has garnered significant attention due to the cruelty involved and the legal implications surrounding such practices.

Che Lord, who originally hails from Biggin Hill in Westerham, Kent, was responsible for allowing his dogs to be subjected to this invasive procedure. The three puppies involved were described as American XL bulldogs, a breed often associated with such cosmetic alterations, despite the clear legal restrictions against ear cropping in England and Wales.

Legal and veterinary experts provided detailed reports during the court proceedings. A veterinary report, presented as evidence, outlined the severe physical and welfare consequences of ear cropping. It explained that the procedure causes immediate inflammation and pain, which can persist long-term. The report, authored by veterinary surgeon Dr. Sean Taylor, highlighted that tissue removal and altered ear posture could lead to chronic issues. Dr. Taylor stated, “As with any tissue removal, there will be associated chronic scarring and stimulation of nerves, which may result in ongoing pain.”

He further emphasized the importance of ear movement in canine communication, noting that “Dogs communicate with each other via body language, and part of this involves ear movement and position. Mutilation of the ear pinna results in a dramatically altered ear shape, which may hinder the dog’s ability to communicate effectively.”

Investigating the case, RSPCA Inspector Miranda Albinson confirmed that ear cropping is illegal under Section 5 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 in England and Wales. She pointed out that although the practice remains legal in some European countries and certain US states, it is strictly prohibited in the UK. Inspector Albinson stated, “Owners cannot crop their dogs’ ears or send them to someone else to do it.”

As a result of the court’s decision, all three of Lord’s dogs will be rehomed, ensuring they are no longer subjected to such procedures. The court sentenced Che Lord to a 12-month community order, which includes 40 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £195 in costs and charges. A deprivation order was also issued, removing ownership of the three dogs from Lord, although he is not disqualified from owning more in the future.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by authorities and animal welfare organizations to combat illegal and harmful practices like ear cropping, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare laws and their enforcement across Somerset and the wider UK.