title: Cosmetic tail docking: an overview of abuse and report of an interesting case.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This paper presents an overview of the global controversies surrounding cosmetic tail docking in puppies, some observed inconsistent practices among dog breeders and Veterinarians in West Africa, and the need for the African Veterinary Profession to take a decisive position on the cosmetic docking procedure.
  
  
  METHODS
  An interesting report of observed complications associated with cosmetic tail docking in a 3 week old male Boerboel is reported alongside the management of the ensuing complications.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This paper highlights the still prevalent practice of cosmetic tail docking and seeks to enlighten clinicians towards stemming its abuse in Africa.
authors.affiliation: Department of Veterinary Surgery and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria. odeyarefe@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Oghenemega David
authors.initials: OD
authors.lastname: Eyarefe
authors.affiliation: Department of Veterinary Surgery and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria. wumcel06@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Cecilia O
authors.initials: CO
authors.lastname: Oguntoye
mesh_terms: D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000662:veterinary*; D000827:Animal Welfare; D000818:Animals; D004285:Dogs; D008297:Male; D013623:Tail / Q000601:surgery*