Skip to main content
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Congratulates the Government of Ontario on Passing New Legislation Against Unnecessary Surgical Procedures on Animals
June 12, 2026
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) has long opposed cosmetic and medically unnecessary surgeries, including feline declawing, canine ear cropping, and debarking and congratulates the Province of Ontario on the passage of a new regulation that prohibits these procedures. Such procedures serve no benefit to the animal yet have historically been routinely performed on animals despite the risk of significant of short- and/or long-term post-surgical complications. This milestone reflects years of thoughtful consultation and advocacy by the public, veterinarians, and veterinary bodies.
These are challenging efforts at the provincial level and CVMA recognizes the commitment and diligence by all provinces and provincial stakeholders who have enacted these prohibitions across the country over the past few years.
The CVMA acknowledges the important leadership and sustained efforts of the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, and provincial legislators’ ongoing efforts and sustained commitment which were instrumental in advancing this important law. The passage of this legislation represents an important step forward and demonstrates what can be achieved through persistence, dedication, and willingness to collaborate for the common good. The CVMA looks forward to seeing the implementation of this new regulation in early 2027. Work towards national harmonization of all listed prohibited cosmetic veterinary procedures across all provinces is expected to continue with the diligent advocacy of the Provincial Veterinary Associations and the CVMA.