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Originally Posted by Lil Sis  I know this is a very old thread... but it was an interesting read anyway.
I would like to add. My dd has a 14 week puppy. His tail was not docked nor his dew claw removed. She did ask the vet if the dew claw could be removed now and he said no.. it was an invasive operation to do it at this age. Just a bit of info |
The dewclaw can be removed at an older age but is considered amputation and is more painful for them but it can be done and is often done.
My cocker spaniel puppy has 1 dewclaw that must have grew back from when the breeder's vet did it. It is now deformed and causing problems. The vet is going to remove it when she is spayed around 6 months old. If it were a normal dewclaw I wouldn't bother as I have 2 others that still have dewclaws and wouldn't consider having it done to them.
I guess I am pro dewclaw removal and tail docking because it is done at a very early age and if done right causes very little pain and no bleeding. As for declawing cats, I really have nothing against those that want to declaw their cats, I just prefer not to.
I don't think there is a definite right or wrong decision. I would prefer training the cat but if someone wants to declaw their cat that is their decision to make and it isn't necessarily right or wrong. As long as the end result is a happy cat and happy owner I am all for whatever decision makes that possible.
Having said that, I admit that I prefer docked tails and cropped ears for purely cosmetic preference. Although they both have benefits and a purpose for being done, it is my personal preference. I love nubby tails and pointy ears. Docked tails prevent tail damage and a dog with erect ears has less ear infections, both make my life easier. Does that make it wrong? Perhaps in some people's views but the end result is a happy dog and owner and besides the initial pain of when it is done, they are no painful lasting results so what harm is being done?