Thank you for the responses. Of course, the ideal solution would be a foster home. Or having the volunteer base with the time required to provide enough proactive enrichment. It is my impression that my current shelter, and a previous one, call on a limited foster availability only when the situation is more urgent. I am, however, concerned that shelters with in-house veterinarian services (like mine) seem quick to amputate - maybe because Shelter managers are busy and have so many other issues to deal with.
I was hoping for a some kind of metal framed pad that could be hung in front of the concrete block wall. Metal framed to discourage biting and tearing. The attempted solution shown in the picture was quickly destroyed.
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David Daniels
Shelter Volunteer
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-28-2022 09:59 PM
From: Christine Calder
Subject: Looking for a Happy Tail Solution - other than surgically chopping the tail
Hello David,
If "happy tail" is a common problem at your shelter, my recommendation is to take a look at your enrichment program. Tail docking is not the solution. I find there are often undesirable complications when this surgery is done. You may be treating the injury but not addressing the root cause of the problem. These dogs are often stressed and in need of out of kennel time and mental enrichment opportunities. Their basic needs are not always being met. Placing these dogs in foster ASAP is beneficial, as well, to reduce the incidence of tail injuries and quickly improve their welfare.
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Christine D. Calder DVM
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
Calder Veterinary Behavior Services
www.caldervbs.com
Veterinary Behaviorist
Behavior Specialist, MPF
Original Message:
Sent: 02-25-2022 06:56 PM
From: David Daniels
Subject: Looking for a Happy Tail Solution - other than surgically chopping the tail
"happy tail" is a common problem at the shelter I volunteer at.
I refer to "happy tail" as the problem of a dog's tail being injured by repeatedly hitting the concrete block walls of their kennel space. When a wound is opened, it gets worse and never gets a chance to heal.
Cutting the dog's tail seems to be the accepted response - even from shelter veterinarians. Surely some shelter has come up with a more humane solution. I have tried hanging blankets, but the dogs rip them up.
I would appreciate if perhaps Maddie's can provide some possible ideas or contacts? Maybe send me a picture of something custom made that I can make.?
Two dogs at my shelter have just had their tails chopped. It must surely be painful. And it breaks my heart.
David Daniels
DavidD4300@gmail.com
#Medicine,SurgeryandSterilization
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David Daniels
Shelter Volunteer
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