The heated debate surrounding animal welfare practices ignited recently after Simone Biles, the celebrated Olympic gymnast, welcomed a Doberman Pinscher puppy into her home, sparking an avalanche of criticism. The breed's history of cropping and docking has reignited discussions about ethics in dog breeding, especially under the lens of celebrity influence.
Who is William Roots?
William Roots, the owner of Regal Empire Dobermans in Georgia, provided the puppy to Biles and her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens. Following the public post featuring the couple and their new pet, Roots faced severe backlash, including death threats and racist abuse. "I received messages saying they hope my dogs attack me, and worse," he stated, underscoring the vitriol aimed at him for the couple's decision to buy a dog with cropped ears.
The Backlash Explained
This backlash was fueled in part by PETA, which condemned Biles' choice, asserting that her actions reinforced a troubling image of animal ownership. The organization claims that purchasing from breeders supports a 'homeless animal crisis' and is inherently cruel, especially when cosmetic modifications like ear cropping are involved.
Roots' Defense
"The procedure is done by a licensed veterinarian," Roots argues, adding, "it's legal in America, even if it is not in certain parts of Europe." He explains that cropping and docking have traditionally been associated with specific breed standards endorsed by the American Kennel Club. He points to the fact that such practices have been a method for ensuring breed integrity over the years.
Roots took particular issue with PETA's claims. He emphasized the health benefits touted by breeders, asserting that they include better hearing and preventing tail injuries. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association staunchly opposes these practices, stating there are no documented benefits and calling for their elimination.
The Ethical Dilemma
This scenario begs an essential question about animal breeding in the age of social media: Who holds accountability? Celebrity choices wield substantial influence, but do they also come with a moral responsibility? In response to online criticism, Roots adamantly contends, "It's a client's decision regarding what they wish to do. There are many arguments about the ethics of breeding vs. adopting, but that's a choice for individuals to make based on their circumstances and preferences."
Where Do We Go from Here?
As advocates on both sides of the argument push their agendas, the potential repercussions on the breed, and social sentiment about animal welfare loom large. What remains clear is that debates surrounding ear cropping and puppy mill ethics will continue to spur passionate discourse.
The Dichotomy of Adoption vs. Purchasing
Roots argues that adoption is not obviously superior to purchasing from breeders. He remarks on the unpredictability of adopting an animal with unknown backgrounds, emphasizing that such decisions come with significant risks. Critics, however, contend that those who adopt play a crucial role in reducing shelter overpopulation.
PETA's spokesperson, Moira Colley, reinforced this perspective by stating, "Responsible people don't 'customize' their dogs as if they were made of clay; they adopt and never buy.” This comment speaks volumes about the larger conversation around commodifying pets vs. supporting shelters.
Conclusion
As figures like Biles continue to navigate their public personas with private decisions, the implications of celebrity actions will set the tone for future discussions about animal rights and breeding ethics. Understanding the dual-sided arguments at play will be critical as we advance deeper into the complexities of animal ownership, rights, and ethics in our society.
Source reference: https://www.newsweek.com/simone-biles-dog-breeder-speaks-out-after-backlash-11261857
