Three arrested for ear-cropping puppies

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar police have arrested three people for alleged involvement in the illegal and inhumane practice of ear cropping of puppies for business purposes.

The arrests were made during raids in the Gulbahar area after public complaints and social media reports about the cruel practice.The suspects were identified as Niaz Ali, his son Imtiaz Ali, and his son-in-law Badal. They were taken into custody for allegedly chopping off the ears of newborn puppies.

The operation was conducted under the directives of SP City, Syed Talal Ali Shah, who acted after getting notice of public complaints.The animal lovers and rights activists hoped this action would deter others involved in such heinous acts.

Dr Ayeza Haider, the Focal Person of the Pakistan Animal Rights Advocacy Group, commended the police for the action. The doctor said she had raised concerns about this practice nearly a year ago, reaching out to the Peshawar district administration and the deputy commissioner.

She also shared evidence, including photos and videos, with the district director of Livestock, highlighting the brutal treatment of puppies. “This practice is not only cruel but also a violation of the colonial-era `Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act’, 1890,” Dr Haider stated.

She further expressed alarm over reports that sick or unsold puppies were often discarded in drainage canals to die.A local source, who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation, explained that ear cropping was used to deceive buyers.

Stray puppies were taken from their mothers, fed for a few days, and then subjected to ear cropping to pass them off as the highly sought-after Kochi breed from Afghanistan.The Kochi breed, known for its aggressive nature and fighting prowess, was in high demand among dog enthusiasts and those involved in illegal dog fighting.

Dealers often post images of cropped puppies on social media to attract potential buyers. A visit to the Changarabad area near Gulbahar revealed a thriving underground trade in animals.Small kennels housing dogs of various breeds, from mature adults to puppies, were found within cramped residential spaces.

For a mere Rs500 per puppy, dealers offer ear-cropping services on demand. “The arrests brought a sense of relief to animal lovers, who hope this marked the beginning of a broader crackdown on such practices.