The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) board of directors recently approved a new position statement regarding tail docking. The statement written by the Equine Welfare Committee reads:

“Tail docking in horses should only be performed when it is a medical necessity or when it is vital to ensuring the horse’s safety in a work environment. Tail docking should not be performed for cosmetic reasons. To protect the health and welfare of the horse, tail docking should be performed by a licensed veterinarian to ensure adequate pain management, sterile technique, and appropriate aftercare. Tail docking should always be done in compliance with individual state laws.

“The AAEP’s list of ethics and professional guidelines can be found in the AAEP membership directory each year, or viewed on the AAEP web site at www.aaep.org/ethics_prof_guide.php