הסרת אצבע זאב: the law by country

Anyone up to 4 days after birth. Later, a veterinary practitioner only, for a prophylactic or therapeutic purpose.

By a vet (S.I. 304/2017 removed vet nurses), on a pointer, spaniel or terrier or combination, not yet 8 days old, with the dam or proof of her death, on evidence of use in lawful pest control, hunting or shooting; declaration and microchip.

Only a licensed veterinarian, using anesthesia when appropriate. Misdemeanor.

An offense on a dog over five days old unless a licensed veterinarian does it. Whoever procures it must keep a record until the wound heals.

Permitted; an anaesthetic is required unless the puppy's eyes have not yet opened.

A lay person may remove dew claws only before the pups' eyes are open; otherwise a vet (s.5(5)).

Exempted for general animal management; the Regulations set no age condition. RCVS guidance cites the Protection of Animals (Anaesthetic) Act 1954: anaesthesia unless before the eyes are open.

An anaesthetic is required unless the puppy's eyes have not yet opened.

Front and articulated hind dew claws, at any age, and non-articulated hind dew claws from 4 days of age: veterinarian (or supervised veterinary student) with pain relief. Non-articulated hind dew claws under 4 days old are outside those limits.

May be done only by a person under s.10(2) of the Act. Version of 1 January 2022; a 2025 amendment (307/2025) exists and was not checked.

Allowed when a veterinarian operates to treat an injury or disease or for other medical reasons necessary or beneficial to the animal's health (s.28(a)), and for agricultural practices in line with the NFACC codes or other prescribed codes (s.28(b)). Applies to any person, not only veterinarians.