Dew clawing is the name given to the removal the non-weight bearing toe of a dog (or cat). This essentially is the removal of a thumb or big toe for a human, but it’s used by dogs to grip toys and bones and can also be used when a dog is running. As with all dogs toes, these nails do need to be trimmed regularly to avoid injury or bleeding.
It is against the law in Ireland (Prohibition on Tail Docking and Dew Claw Removal (Dogs) Regulations 2014) to perform this surgery without a legitimate reason. Only a registered veterinary practitioner or veterinary nurse is permitted to remove a dog’s dew claws
Some dogs as they get older, may need this surgery in the case that the dew claw becomes large, swollen and there is a danger of infection.
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