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Tail docking is WRONG!
I was both saddened and dismayed to read the poll on tail docking, since it appears that some people still believe that this barbaric practice should remain.
I know that I have been accused of pushing my opinion in the past, but this is NOT opinion, it is fact, now backed up by law.
Banding, is when a ligature is placed over the end of the puppies tail, which comes away after 3 days, or removing with scissors. This procedure is performed without anesthetic since it is too harmful to puppies. Since scientific evidence states that a puppies nervous system is fully developed, it therefore will experience severe pain and distress. In severe cases infection can lead to death.
Pro dockers state that tails would be removed to maintain breed standard or to avoid tail damage. Perhaps a pro docker could explain why Retrievers and Setters (both working dogs), who are bred to hunt throughout all kinds of terrain, are allowed to keep their tails? What of breed standard. Is is right that we should make the decision to dock a tail because we feel it is more pleasing to our eyes!
Tails are a VITAL form of communication. Used to denote moods such as excitement, fear etc. Docking was also associated with numerous heath problems such as incontinence in bitches where muscles that help control urination are weakened.
This is NOT opinion, this is fact, hence it is now illegal.
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