What's safe about modifying dogs?

In response to Mrs. O'Connor's March 8 letter, what could possibly be "safe" and "humane" about removing and/or modifying any body parts of a dog for purely cosmetic purposes? Providing the excuse that these practices have been performed for centuries does not cut it. While these modifications may have once served a purpose for working and hunting dogs, those days are gone. Causing any animal unnecessary pain for the amusement of yourselves and judges can only be labeled torture. As a human being, I can make my own choices about whether or not to pierce my ears or go under the knife for plastic surgery. Your dogs have no say in these matters, and still you actually find sense in slicing off their tails and dewclaws and altering their ears. I would never cause unnecessary pain to my pets. The bottom line is that when Senate Bill 139 goes through, the American Kennel Club and its counterparts will be forced to change breed standards; cropping and docking will become a distant and chilling memory. I applaud your family's outstanding breeding standards, but wish you would think about what is in the best interest of your dogs before altering them for your own purposes.

Melissa Allen

Bensenville