The Ohio Veterinary Medical Association Board of Directors voted unanimously to oppose the routine tail docking of cattle at its Oct. 27 meeting. The decision followed a thoughtful review and discussion of information from the American Veterinary Medical Association, as well as the policy statement of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
In electing to concur with the policies of the two national organizations, the OVMA Board recognized the absence of scientific evidence to support the practice from a worker safety or milk safety standpoint. Additionally, studies indicate cattle tail docking can lead to animal distress during fly season.
OVMA engaged in a review of the practice of cattle tail docking, recognizing the issue would soon be under consideration by the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board.
“The Ohio Veterinary Medical Association opposes the routine tail docking of cattle, and concurs with and supports the American Veterinary Medical Association’s policy, as well as the American Association of Bovine Practitioner’s policy on tail docking of cattle.”
OVMA Board of Directors Position on Tail Docking
AVMA Policy: The AVMA opposes routine tail docking of cattle. Current scientific literature indicates that routine tail docking provides no benefit to the animal, and that tail docking can lead to distress during fly seasons. When medically necessary, amputation of tails must be performed by a licensed veterinarian.
AABP Policy: The AABP opposes the routine tail docking of cattle. Current scientific literature indicates that routine tail docking provides no benefit to the animal.
