9d. Amputation of Dew Claws in Dogs

Policy

The NZVA is opposed to the amputation of dew claws in dogs except for veterinary medical reasons, when it should be undertaken by a veterinarian using appropriate analgesia.

Explanation

Although both forelimb and hind limb first digits are commonly referred to as “dew claws”, in fact only the vestigial digits inside the hind limbs are dew claws proper.  The first digit on the forelimb is fully articulated and a much more substantial structure than the hind limb dew claw, and consequently its removal is more involved and should rarely be necessary, as it is less likely to protrude from the limb and consequently get damaged.

The removal of dew claws where they do protrude from the limb and are likely to become caught and torn, or where the nail may overgrow because of minimal wear causing abscessation of the pad, may then be justified.

Guidelines

Veterinarians should encourage breeders of dogs with protruding dew claws not to breed from them as this is an inherited trait. The prophylactic amputation of dew claws is acceptable only where, in the opinion of the veterinarian, injury to the animal is likely to occur during normal activity. It is not acceptable if carried out solely for the convenience of the owner or for cosmetic reasons.

Veterinarians should encourage adequate care of dew claws so that they do not become overgrown. Dew claws should be clipped regularly, avoiding the nail quick.

References

Animal Welfare Act 1999

Policy Files: 

9d - Amputation of Dew Claws - Sep10.pdf