Quote:
Originally Posted by kezza  I do not agree with tail docking at all..thankfully banned here in the United Kingdom and i certainly DO NOT agree with docking an older puppies tail!  please please please think this through carefully! it is a much more complicated procedure the older they are and your puppy WILL suffer pain and discomfort..i'm sure you don't really want that..I don't want any negative comments on my post either...just stating my honest feelings on this.  |
I live in the US but completely agree with the above. It is just a cosmetic surgery and there can be a lot of pain and other problems from having a fully formed tail cut off. Most vets around here won't even do it if it isn't medically necessary. I used to work as a vet tech, for years, and saw this done many times. There was a LOT of pain for the dogs, and they would often come back in to the clinic because of infection, because the stitches came out etc. Just think for a moment WHERE the wound will be.. how will he sit while his tail is healing? Because of where stitches will be, there is a greater chance of getting the stitches caught in things (such as bedding and carpet) and for germs to get in. Another thing you may want to take into consideration is that there WILL be scarring so the cute little end of the tail will most likely have a hairless spot/line.
The American Veterinary Medical Association have stated that they would like to see this type of cosmetic procedure discontinued for cosmetic purposes only. In fact, in several states there are currently bills being passed to that effect.
I don't want to push my opinion on you, but please call more than just your own vet for their honest opinion on how serious this procedure really is (and about recovery). It truly is the same kind of surgery as having a finger etc removed. If you are having second thoughts perhaps more investigation is needed. I certainly applaud you for bringing it up here on YT. I know there are probably strong opinions on both sides of the issue.
My question is, if your human child didn't look just like you wanted, would you have cosmetic surgery done so the child fit your ideal? No offence meant, I hope I didn't ruffle any feathers.