No offense, but "This question has a very straightforward answer: you should not dock a dog’s tail or declaw a cat” seems very opinionated, and that decision should be left to the owner of the animal. I’m very opposed to declawing and docking, but it’s ultimately up to the owner to decide.
It is opinionated. I’m a professional with an opinion which is based on my profession.
I am not some 13yo kid with a tumblr. I’m a real, fully fledged veterinarian over here, and the mods will direct you to statements I’ve made in the past because I’ve heard all the ‘reasons’ and excuses when it comes to tail docking and ear cropping, and cat declawing.
You should not dock a dog’s tail or declaw a cat. Or crop their ears.
I am very, very clear.
That decision is not, in no way just up to the owner of the animal. It’s also up to the qualified veterinarian they are expecting to perform the procedure for their convenience or aesthetic.
And I say no. More and more professional organizations for veterinarians, animal welfare groups, and legislative groups also say no.
So it’s not just my professional opinion, mate. But even if I was alone, I’d still stand by it.
- Dr Ferox
