I consider the US quite educated.

Actually, I don't really care for the short stubby dog tails and I like floopy ears...just look at my avatar.

As with any surgery there is pain and discomfort even for people but animals and people heal.

My vet is quite humane and kind as are his staff, he has been in practice many years...long enough for me to have 3 dogs put down (2 were 12 years old and 1 was 8 years old) due to age and serious health issues.

It's okay that you do not believe in declawing, many don't, but understand that just as many more do believe in having this done and it doesn't make us any less caring of our animal than you.

By the way - I have a declawed, spayed, happy, healthy, painless, 7 year old cat.