Animal rights group says the decision could also prevent future generations of animal abusers.
WASHINGTON, FROM A LEDGE OUTSIDE THE SUPREME COURT — PETA has won a Supreme Court case requiring male dog owners to undergo castration if they choose to have their dogs neutered.
"For decades, men have been bringing their dogs to veterinarians, having their testicles removed, and then going home with their own," said PETA's lead attorney. "We felt it was time to address this injustice."
The Court agreed, ruling that owners should not be allowed to make irreversible reproductive decisions for their pets without facing the same consequences.
The decision has caused considerable concern among male dog owners.
"I just wanted him to stop humping the furniture," said John Barkley, 43, whose Golden Retriever was scheduled for surgery next Tuesday. "I didn't realize my testicles were part of the discussion."
Several veterinary clinics have already reported a sharp increase in cancelled appointments. Others say male customers have begun asking whether their dogs can be legally transferred to their wives.
But according to PETA, the ruling goes far beyond simple fairness.
"Every year, thousands of children are born to people who own dogs," explained a spokesperson. "Some of those children will grow up to mistreat animals. By castrating their fathers, we're preventing the problem before it even begins."
Asked whether there was any evidence that these unborn children would abuse dogs, the spokesperson acknowledged that there wasn't.
"That's exactly why we can't take any chances."
PETA is now considering expanding its campaign to men who do not currently own dogs.
"They could still have children who might eventually get one," the spokesperson explained.
The organization insists it has no intention of interfering with human reproduction.
"Our only concern is the welfare of animals."
