WHY REMOVE DEWCLAWS?

We have been unable to find the article on dewclaws by Drs. Foster and Smith to which Mr. Lanting refers. Extensive research shows that the following excerpt taken from an article entitled “All About Animal Feet” written by Lisa C. Beagan, DVM on October 23, 2000:

“….Dewclaws can be a real drag. These are the little thumb toenails that originate a little bit higher on the inside part of the leg. Often these nails are removed when the dog is a puppy. If they lack underlying bone structure and are loose, they can become caught in the carpet and tear. Because dewclaws do not touch the ground, they do not wear down. It is common for these nails to grow around in a circle and dig back into the dog’s skin. This causes a painful inflammation—if this happens to your dog, take it to your veterinarian.”

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Copyright 2001 Sierra Milton. sierra.milton@ntlworld.com All rights reserved. However, you are encouraged to copy and distribute this article for non-commercial use with the following restrictions: You may not modify the article in any way. You must include the entire article including the copyright notice. You may not charge any fee for use, copying, nor distribution of the product with the following exceptions: Non-profit organizations may charge a nominal fee (not to exceed $5.00) until and unless notified by the author this is not the case.

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