iRAT 3 Flashcards
Describe (in general terms) what ear cropping is.
- part of the ear is surgically cut away, braced and
taped so the ears stand erect - Veterinarians who are experienced in doing this
procedure (the equivalent of plastic surgery) - even with surgery some ears will not stand up
Primary Reasons for Ear Cropping
historically, in guard dogs ear cropping was done to give a dog a more “alert” look for it’s human
currently, it has been suggested that dogs with cropped ears are less likely to suffer
from infections of the ear canal, with no scientific evidence to back it up
The AKC currently recognizes 20 breeds with cropped ears. Name 5 AKC recognized breeds with cropped ears.
Doberman Pinscher
Boxer
Cane Corso
Great Dane
Schnauzer
What are some potential complications/risks associated with ear cropping?
Anesthesia, Post-op care, Infection of wounds, complications after surgery
Discuss what evidence there is in the literature regarding the health
benefits of ear cropping.
Some evidence links infections to low hanging ears. No evidence is shown that ear cropping helps prevent infections or prevent later ear injury.
What is the American Veterinary Medical Association’s position on ear
cropping? Discuss why they have taken this position.
Ear cropping is a cosmetic procedure with potential negative outcomes for the animal. They have taken this position because the potential risks outweigh the positives.
Describe (in general terms) what tail docking is. What were the three
historical reasons for tail docking?
Removal of a portion of the tail in working, sporting,
or terrier breeds to prevent injury while working
- could prevent rabies
- prevent people from grabbing tail
- reduce injury while hunting game
What are the main current reasons for docking tails in some dogs?
The tail could seize a guard dog to thwart its attack
Hunting dogs, such as pointers, may damage their tail tip in the underbrush
Long-haired dogs may become more soiled if they have a hanging tail.
Cosmetic Reasons
The AKC currently recognizes 62 breeds with docked tails. Name 5 AKC recognized breeds of dogs that have their tails docked.
Doberman
Rottweiler
Miniature Schnauzer
German Shorthaired Pointer
Cocker Spaniel
Discuss what evidence there is in the literature regarding the health
benefits of tail docking
Historical reasons lead to believe it prevented injury and better hygiene, but current evidence leads to claiming tail docking is unnecessary.
What are some potential complications/risks associated with tail docking?
Pain, complications like infection, potential behavioral issues, and potential underdeveloped pelvic muscles.
What is the American Veterinary Medical Associations position on tail docking?
Discuss why they have taken this position.
Routine tail docking has not been shown to produce demonstrable benefits for most dogs. When it is performed routinely rather than in response to a medical need (such as tail trauma), it is considered cosmetic surgery. They take this position because the risks outweigh the “benefits”
Name three dangerous weather-related issues that a
hurricane produces.
Storm Surges
Heavy rain/Flood
Strong Wind
At what approximate wind speed is it impossible to stand up in?
Around 50 to 60 miles per hour
Why is it critical to transport cats in a carrier when evacuating during an emergency?
Safety, protection from hazards, familiar environment
