An elastrator (often called elastrator pliers) is a device commonly used with elastrator bands for castrating or "banding" livestock such as calves, sheep and goats and for tail-docking sheep. The procedure is considered humane and efficient because bloodless and quick. Elastrator pliers and rings are available online for under $10 USD plus shipping, and from livestock and farm supply stores for about $20.
This article briefly presents two points of view on the advisability of using this method of neutering companion animals, specifically dogs.
How Elastrator Pliers Work
The device stretches a small, thick rubber elastrator ring (band) to about 2" diameter in a manner that allows the testicles to be passed through the stretched ring, and then closes the ring tightly. The testicles and scrotum dessicate from lack of blood, and drop off within a few weeks.
Use of Elastrator Banding on Dogs and Cats: Pro
In rural areas, where the devices are freely available and stock handlers are familiar with their use, elastrator banding of companion animals such as dogs and cats by owners or neighbors appears to be not uncommon.
On the pro side, Dan and Laura Lane of Bountiful Farm give careful instructions. They advise on preparing the dog, recommend consultation with a veterinarian before the procedure, explain how to apply the ring, and warn of possible risks. It is important that the person applying the band be familiar with the procedure in order to prevent causing harm or discomfort to the animal.
- Use tetanus anti-toxin to prevent risk of tetanus infection
- Attach the ring close to the scrotum to prevent complications
- Take care not to catch the testicles in the ring
- Be sure no hair is caught under the ring
According to the Lanes, "Done properly, banding a dog takes little time [with] no ill consequences and negligible cost compared to a vet's bill." They go on to note that "Oddly enough, the dogs do not seem to notice the castration activity and thoroughly enjoy individual attention and petting by the person keeping them occupied."
Use of Elastrator Pliers on Dogs and Cats: Con
It should be obvious that veterinary practitioners have both
- a financial stake in surgical procedures
- a reasonable professional concern about the hazards of do-it-yourself procedures
Gerry Retief, veterinarian and owner of Montwood Park Veterinary Clinic in Australia, posted on his forum this comment about banding as a method of tail docking: "Using elastrator bands causes prolonged pain in the puppy and is one of the least humane methods around. Imagine having a tight elastic band around your own, or even worse your baby's finger until it literally rots and falls off. Tetanus can also very easily develop in puppies with this barbaric method."
The South Australians seem to be seriously against elastrator banding even for livestock, and the SPCA there prosecuted a dog owner for attempting to neuter the animal with an elastrator. However, it is not entirely clear if the prosecution was for using the method or for mis-applying the ring and causing the dog pain.
Official Comments on Elastrator Banding for Companion Animals
Dr. Warren Skippon, Manager, National Issues & Animal Welfare for the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) says (personal communication, 2009.02.24), "The CVMA does not have an official position on this practice." However, "the veterinary profession and animal protection agencies would frown on producers using an elastrator band intended for livestock species on dogs or cats."
The American Veterinary Medical Association, in a paper on Welfare Implications of Castration of Cattle, after a review of castration methods including banding concluded that "all methods of castration induce pain and physiologic stress in [cattle] of all ages" to some extent, and recommend "application of local anesthesia and the administration of analgesics...to minimize or eliminate pain and stress associated with castration."
Alternatives to Elastrator Banding for Cost-Effective Castration
For surgical neutering, there are some ways to bring the cost down.
- Dr. Skippon suggests bringing your pets to veterinary interns (students). The students receive surgical experience (supervised by graduate veterinarians and technicians) and the owners get a reduced fee. Contact your local veterinary college to ask about neutering programs of this type.
- Many localities also conduct neutering programs that offer a lower cost. Contact your local SPCA or animal welfare agency for information.
While there appears to be nothing illegal in the actual practice of an owner banding his dog or cat, the owner is responsible for the animal's welfare. If the band is applied incorrectly, or if there is evidence of animal pain and suffering, the owner could be liable to charges.
The author thanks Dr. Warren Skippon of the CVMA for his assistance with this article.
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