Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has captured the hearts of fans not just with his impressive football skills but also with the adorable addition to his family, a charming Can Corso dog named Saint. Rashford has been sharing heartwarming photos of his furry companion on social media, showcasing their strong bond and how the canine helps him unwind following intense matches.

Known for his philanthropic endeavors beyond football, Rashford frequently emphasizes the importance of self-care and mental health. His Can Corso dog, with its calm and nurturing demeanor, has become a source of comfort and relaxation for the athlete. The presence of the dog provides Rashford with much-needed respite from the pressures of professional football.

However, the recent image has raised concerns among animal welfare experts, and not solely due to the Manchester United jersey worn by the pup. In accordance with campaigners, the Can Corso dog, originating from Russia, appears to have undergone ear cropping, which is illegal in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Section 5 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 explicitly prohibits performing such procedures on protected animals. While the practice remains legal in several countries, it is considered a crime to import dogs into the UK that have undergone ear cropping or tail docking.

An RSPCA representative expressed their stance, stating, “The RSPCA opposes ear cropping, a procedure in which ears are removed or surgically altered, often for cosmetic purposes.”

Ear cropping is both painful and unnecessary, and it poses risks to the dog’s health, behavior, and overall well-being. Animals should not be subjected to mutilation for aesthetic reasons.

“Unfortunately, we suspect that ear cropping still occurs in England and Wales, despite its illegality under Section 5 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and some dogs are imported from overseas with cropped ears,” the representative added.

The RSPCA advises against purchasing dogs with cropped ears, as they have likely undergone this highly painful procedure. Rashford, who missed Manchester United’s recent 1-0 loss to Newcastle, acquired his puppy from Chaperone K9, a family-owned business in Leicestershire specializing in providing personal and family protection dogs.