Human Cruelty or Animal Grooming? Here’s a Look at Weird Animal Procedures Performed by Humans

By Michael M’mata
Throughout human history, people have performed various procedures on animals for different reasons.
Some of these procedures are for practical purposes such as marking, grooming or taming the animal, while others are for more personal or cultural reasons.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the weirdest procedures men have performed on animals.
1. Castration
Castration is the surgical removal of the testicles or ovaries of an animal.
While it is mainly performed on livestock to control their populations and improve meat quality, some people have castrated their pets for personal reasons.
Castration can have physical and behavioral effects on animals, and it is important to consider the animal’s welfare before making a decision to perform this procedure.
2. Ear Cropping
Ear cropping is a procedure in which the ears of certain breeds of dogs are surgically altered to give them a distinctive appearance.
While this practice was once thought to improve the dog’s hearing and reduce the risk of ear infections, it is now widely regarded as unnecessary and cruel.
In some countries, ear cropping is illegal, and the American Veterinary Medical Association considers it to be a form of animal abuse.
3. Tail Docking
Tail docking is the removal of part or all of an animal’s tail, often performed on certain breeds of dogs, such as Boxers, Dobermans and Rottweilers.
This procedure is performed for cosmetic reasons, but it can also cause physical and behavioral problems for the animal, such as chronic pain and difficulty communicating with other dogs.
4. De-horning
De-horning is the removal of the horns from an animal, usually cattle.
This procedure is performed to prevent injury to other animals or humans, but it can also be done for cosmetic reasons.
De-horning can be painful for the animal, and it is important to consider the welfare of the animal before making the decision to perform this procedure.
5. Declawing
Declawing is the removal of the claws from an animal, usually a cat.
This procedure is performed for the convenience of the owner, but it can also cause physical and behavioral problems for the animal, such as chronic pain and difficulty climbing.
Declawing is considered to be a form of animal abuse by many animal welfare organizations.
6. Fistulated Cow
A fistulated cow is a cow that has had a surgical opening created in its side to allow scientists to study its digestive processes.
The opening, known as a fistula, provides access to the cow’s stomach and intestines and allows scientists to observe the effects of different diets on the animal’s digestive system.
In conclusion, while some procedures performed on animals may have practical or cultural reasons, it is important to consider the welfare of the animal and ensure that any procedure performed is necessary and does not cause harm.
In cases where procedures are performed for cosmetic reasons, it is important to consider alternative methods that do not cause harm to the animal.