EARLIEST PUPPYHOOD. 303 



an evidence of good breeding. Yet they are of no possi- 

 ble benefit to the dog ; in fact they are a detriment, liable 

 as they are to become torn and sore from contact with ice, 

 briers or sharp grass. Moreover, these claws are singu- 

 larly inclined to cut into the flesh, since not being in use 

 like the other claws they are not worn down. 



Dew-claws appearing in other than St. Bernards are 

 regarded with suspicion by some as evidence of impure 

 breeding. But this is a mistaken notion, for they may 

 appear on any breed of dogs, even of the bluest blood. 

 And in my opinion they should be removed in all instances. 

 As for double dew-claws, I consider them not only useless 

 but hideous monstrosities, which tend to turn the feet out 

 and the hocks in — or at least they appear to do this in 

 large breeds. Furthermore, the legs have a much cleaner 

 and more trim look without them. 



The removal of dew-claws should be effected shortly 

 after weaning and the puppies have been separated from 

 their mother, who might disturb or tear off the bandages. 

 If merely fastened to the skin they may be clipped with 

 sharp scissors ; and this instrument will answer every pur- 

 pose even when they are attached to tendons. But when 

 fixed to the canon — metatarsal bone — it will be neces- 

 sary to dissect them from the bone ; in doing which the 

 operator should avoid the internal saphenous vein. And 

 were this accidentally cut it should be ligated. 



If the wound is of sufficient importance the edges 

 should be stitched together and a bandage applied ; and 

 the same should be kept on until healing has occurred, 

 which usually requires from seven to ten days. Some do 

 not bandage after the operation, but it should be the rule, 

 for the purpose of keeping the wound clean and its edges 

 together. A rubber ligature around the leg above the 

 hock will generally be advisable while operating in diffi- 

 cult cases. 



