Overview
- William Regal of Regal Empire Dobermans told TMZ he has received death threats and business-targeting complaints after selling the cropped-and-docked puppy to Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens.
- Regal argues ear cropping and tail docking are common in the U.S. when performed by licensed veterinarians and says the measures can prevent tail injuries and ear hematomas.
- The American Veterinary Medical Association, cited in coverage, states the procedures are not medically indicated and provide no health benefits.
- PETA publicly criticized Biles for buying from a breeder and for the cosmetic surgeries, urging adoption and calling the operations painful and unnecessary.
- The backlash followed a December 16 Instagram photo from Regal’s kennel showing the couple with the Doberman puppy, and Regal says Biles sought a protective companion.