The Council of Docked Breeds has helped campaigners down under keep a proposed docking ban out of Western Australia’s new animal welfare legislation.

Following an appeal from docked breed supporters in Perth, the CDB mobilised the lobbying of politicians through ‘The Dog’s Body’ an Australian campaign group. The group distributed campaign packs to members of Western Australia’s legislative Upper House as part of a concerted campaign of action, which included a successful rally.

Just three days later, it was announced that a ban on docking would not be included in the new Bill, and the legislation was passed on 12th November. A working party has been formed to examine the issue of docking, with representatives from the Australian Veterinary Association, the RSPCA and the Western Australia Canine Association. "We are celebrating.

What a team effort!" said local campaigner Patricia Hall.

Meanwhile the CDB has reaffirmed its pledge to continue fighting to maintain the freedom for dog breeders to choose the docking option.

Speaking at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting in Kettering, CDB President Peter Squires warned members that the Government’s proposed Animal Welfare Bill presented a greater threat to freedom of choice over docking than any since the formation of the CDB.

He said that the CDB, was taking what action it could to reinforce the pro-docking arguments, and that it would be meeting DEFRA officials to discuss the issues face to face.

"The Board of the CDB will continue to campaign on behalf of all docked breed owners who wish to retain the option to dock," said Peter Squires. He added that success would be dependant upon all interested parties speaking with one voice.

He thanked the hundreds of members who had responded to DEFRA’s animal welfare consultation, but warned that more political action would soon be needed. Any pressure which could be exerted on MPs and peers would be of the utmost importance, and members’ help in lobbying MP over the coming months could be vital.

"We shall be announcing further actions which will benefit from your participation over the coming year and trust we can look forward to your 100% support in what could be our final chance to retain the docking option in the UK," said Peter Squires.

Criticising the proposed legislation, he commented that a docking ban was inconsistent with the fundamental principles behind the new law. "The Government has said that it wants animal welfare legislation to be pre-emptive. Its concern about the current law is that action cannot be taken by the police or animal welfare organisations until an animal is already suffering. The object, it says, behind the new animal welfare legislation, is to enable animal suffering to be prevented before it actually takes place. That of course is exactly what docking dogs’ tails at 48 hours of age is intended to do."