OHS Position Statement: Cosmetic and Elective Surgeries
The OHS opposes elective surgical procedures performed on animals wherein the procedure is strictly for cosmetic purposes. These procedures include, but are not limited to, tail docking of dogs and horses, debarking of dogs, ear cropping of dogs, and dewclaw removal in dogs.
The OHS believes that many breed standards established by the Canadian Kennel Club are antiquated and that meeting such standards does not justify performing these cosmetic surgical procedures.
The OHS believes that declawing cats should only be performed when medically necessary or as a last resort when all alternatives have been exhausted. The OHS supports alternatives to declawing of cats and provides information on these alternatives. Our informative pamphlet is available in PDF format. Declawing of cats, when deemed absolutely necessary, is best done at time of spay or neuter, and should only be performed by a licensed veterinarian using the highest standard of pain management.
The OHS recognizes that identification and processing of farm animals often involves castration, dehorning, branding, tail docking, ear tagging, nose rings, and tooth pulling, among other invasive procedures. The OHS encourages the selection of less invasive forms of identification, and performing surgical procedures under the guidance of a veterinarian using anesthetics where appropriate which can minimize pain and suffering to animals and can lead to greater production gains.
The OHS supports efforts to abolish cosmetic surgical practices and improve elective surgical practices for domestic animals in order to maintain the highest level of welfare and to minimize any unnecessary pain or distress.
New Position Statement approved by the OHS Board of Directors on February 27, 2007
Replaces and expands on the former Ear Cropping, Tail Docking, Declawing and Other Surgical Mutilations Position Statement
