Ears and Tail - Cut or not?

The docking of tails and ears of the dogs was practiced even before the races were organized in clubs and have an official standard. The reasons for performing these amputations were: minimizing injuries and injuries to animals used in hunting, because injuries in this location can cause heavy bleeding. 

Today, cutting the tail and ears have aesthetic reasons only, and is not connected to the functionality of the dog. Many countries have now abolished the practice of surgery with the intention merely aesthetic.

 

Tail 

The tail is an extension of the spine and comprises several vertebrae small. Presents several nerve endings, so it is a very sensitive body part of the animal. The pattern for cutting the tail depends on the breed and can be very short or partially amputated.

What is the dog's tail? 

It is an important means of communication between animals and help with balance. Through the position of the tail, dogs demonstrate their intentions: Tail down can mean submission or fear. Tail wagging the high side to side means joy, but may have a sense of aggression or dominance if the movement is only slight. Through the tail, the dog can express themselves.  

Caudotomia 

The caudotomia, many years ago, is now banned in Europe. Considered surgery cruel to animals, there are even countries even prohibit the entry of dogs with amputated tails in its territory.The caudotomia is made in about three days of age of the dog. Although the pattern of many breeds recommend cutting, such as the Miniature Pinscher, it is not mandatory, and a dog with tail intact Tues pedigree and participate in exhibitions. 

The resolution says:

"Are forbidden or considered unnecessary surgeries that might impede the ability to express natural behavior of the species, being allowed only surgeries that meet the clinical indications." 

Surgery to cut the tail was discouraged but not prohibited.Well, it is necessary to analyze the real need is to amputate a body part of an animal. 

The aesthetic motive is questionable.However, there are cases where there is need for amputation, for example, when the animal repeatedly bites the tip of the tail, often hurts the end to hit objects, causing significant bleeding, tumors, etc.

We must always consider the welfare of the animal before aesthetics, and the law that dogs must be able to express themselves and communicate with us and of course their own kind.