Animal Welfare

As part of an in-class exercise, we were asked to choose and discuss a pertinent ethical issue, using a combination of published studies and our own views to form balanceed opinions.

Tail docking is a highly debated surgical intervention; under the Animal Welfare Act (2006), it is unlawful to dock a dog’s tail for cosmetic or aesthetic reasons and may only be performed by a vet for medical reasons or as a preventative measure if a puppy is likely to work in a specified field.

Prior to my work at the vets, I believed that tail docking was unnecessary in all situations, but having witnessed the pain and stress tail injuries (and the unfortunate but common subsequent tail amputation) causes an owner and dog, I am more inclined to agree it can be a necessary evil in specific circumstances.

When assessed using the Five Freedoms (specifically Freedom from Pain, Discomfort and Injury), a complete ban would still result in injury and pain to working dogs with entire tails, or situations where breeders seek alternate means (McGivern and Welsh, 2024).

This task gave me the opportunity to not only develop my skills in communicating difficult subjects but also reinforced my awareness of legislation and how this may affect the animals I encounter in the future.