Tail alteration: DOCKING

Docking the tails of workhorses—amputating the distal bony part of the limb—is an old tradition that was originally performed to keep the tail from getting caught in the harness or equipment. If the horse hooked his tail over a rein and clamped down, for example, the driver could lose control of the team, and it was also done to keep the tails out of the way of farmers who walked close behind plows and other equipment. Today, docking is done mainly in draft breeds, primarily for cosmetic purposes. For the show ring, the appearance of a short tail can be achieved by trimming and/ or braiding.

Docking may be done either surgically or by ligature—placing rubber rings or other binders around the end of the tail to cause tissue to die. Surgical removal must be done by a licensed veterinarian in states where the procedure is legal. Pain relating to the procedure itself is not the primary welfare issue; instead the concern is the permanent disfigurement that leaves the horse unable to swat flies or use his tail to communicate.

The docking of equine tails is banned or regulated in 11 U.S. states and many European countries. In New Hampshire, it can be done only by a licensed veterinarian and only after the state veterinarian has granted permission. In some states, tail docking is prohibited unless it is deemed medically necessary and/or of benefit to the horse. In others, it is banned outright. — Kate Hepworth-Warren, DVM, DACVIM