In the past few years, there has been an increasing debate about whether or not to remove dew claws from animals. This is an issue that has sparked intense discussion among animal lovers and vets alike, as some argue that removing dew claws is an unnecessary procedure that can cause harm to animals. In this article, we will explore the reasons why some veterinarians are no longer recommending the removal of dew claws, and why this practice has been largely abandoned. We’ll also look at why some pet owners and breeders still choose to have dew claws removed, and the potential consequences of this decision.
What are Dew Claws?
Table of Contents
Dew claws are a type of claw found on the front legs of many animals, including dogs, cats, and horses. They are vestigial structures, meaning that they are remnants of structures from an ancestor that no longer serve any purpose.
Dew claws are the first joint of the front leg, and the claw is generally easier to remove from puppies than from adult animals. The most common reason for dew claw removal is to prevent them from getting caught on things like carpets and rugs, which can cause pain or injury. Some people also believe that it is more aesthetically pleasing to have a clean, uniform look to the paws.
Why Don’t They Remove Dew Claws Anymore?
In the past, dew claw removal was a common practice in the veterinary world. The procedure was generally performed on puppies, as it is much easier to remove the claw when the animal is still young. However, as knowledge about animal anatomy and care has increased, the practice of dew claw removal has become less common.
The primary reason that veterinarians no longer commonly remove dew claws is due to the potential for complications. Removing the dew claw can lead to nerve damage, infection, and even bone deformity. In some cases, the dew claw can grow back, which can be both painful and unsightly.
In addition, removing the dew claw can cause the foot to become unbalanced and can lead to arthritis. As a result, veterinarians now generally advise against the removal of dew claws, except in cases where the claw is causing pain or damage.
What Are the Alternatives to Dew Claw Removal?
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to dew claw removal that can help keep the claws from causing damage or pain. One of the most common methods is to clip the claws regularly. This will help keep them from getting too long and potentially getting caught on things. Regular clipping should be done by an experienced professional, as cutting the claws too short can cause pain and bleeding.
Another alternative to dew claw removal is to use booties or protective covers on the feet. This will keep the claws from coming into contact with surfaces that could potentially cause damage or pain. It is important to ensure that the booties or covers fit properly and that they are changed regularly.
Finally, it is important to provide regular exercise and activity for animals with dew claws. This will help keep the muscles and joints healthy and will also help keep the claws short.
Conclusion
Dew claw removal is no longer a common practice in the veterinary world, due to the potential for complications. There are several alternatives to dew claw removal, such as regular claw clipping, booties or protective covers, and regular exercise and activity. These alternatives can help keep the claws from causing damage or pain, and can help keep the claws short.
## Common Myths About Dew Claws
There are several myths surrounding the removal of dew claws, which are the small toes located on the inner side of the front leg of some dogs.
Myth 1: Removing dew claws is cruel and unnecessary.
This is not true. While it is true that removing dew claws is a surgical procedure, it is not cruel if done properly by a qualified veterinarian. In some cases, dew claws can become a health hazard for dogs if they grow too long or become snagged on something, so removal in these instances can actually be beneficial.
Myth 2: Leaving dew claws intact can cause injury.
This is also not true. In fact, leaving dew claws intact can actually provide some protection for the dog as they can help absorb shock and provide stability when running and jumping. As long as the dew claws are kept trimmed and not allowed to grow too long, there is no greater risk of injury from having them than from not having them.
Myth 3: Removing dew claws is always required for certain breeds.
This is false. While some breeders may require the removal of dew claws, it is not a universal requirement for all breeds. Each breeder will have their own set of rules and guidelines when it comes to dew claw removal, but it is not always necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don’t they remove dew claws anymore?
Answer: Removing dew claws has become increasingly controversial due to the potential for complications, including infection and nerve damage. In some cases, removing dew claws can cause long-term problems, such as arthritis and joint instability. Some veterinarians believe that it is unnecessary and could even be considered animal cruelty.
What are the benefits of keeping dew claws?
Answer: Keeping dew claws can provide an extra layer of protection for the dog’s feet, ankles, and legs by providing a cushion against the ground. Keeping dew claws can also help with balance, particularly on slippery surfaces, and provide extra traction when climbing. Additionally, they can help to prevent further joint damage in the event of a sprain or strain.
Conclusion
. Dew claws are a type of claw found on the front legs of many animals, including dogs, cats, and horses. In the past, dew claw removal was a common practice, but as knowledge has increased it has become less common due to potential complications. Alternatives to removal include regular claw clipping, booties or protective covers, and ensuring regular exercise and activity.
