I worked for a vet for 4 1/2 years in the northeast U.S. who did not dock or crop. So to say that it is a part of being a vet isnt really true. Yes, he would have made more money by doing it. But he has managed to get by financially without doing it.( By the way he also treats large animals..another sure way to not make money. ) He did do declaws on cats but only if it meant the difference between the cat having a home and being surrendered to the shelter. Training and trimming the nails were always promoted as the best options.