Common Injuries That Can Occur To Your Dog's Tail
Posted on: 21 July 2023
You spend hours researching dog foods online, making sure your dog gets enough rest and water, and taking your dog to their yearly veterinarian check-up. However, there is one aspect of canine care you are probably overlooking: Your dog's tail. The tail is actually an extension of your dog's spine and is composed of several vertebrae.
Unfortunately, a dog's tail can easily become injured and often requires immediate veterinary care. Here are some common injuries to your dog's tail you might experience.
Tail Fracture
Your dog's tail is essentially a large bone and like any other bone, it can become broken. Unfortunately, a tail fracture is a common concern that can happen for any number of reasons. For example, if your dog is hit by a car, gets into a fight with another dog, or even if you accidentally step on your dog's tail, it can break.
The severity and placement of the fracture will determine the best treatment. For example, if the tail breaks at the tip, it will typically heal very quickly on its own. If the tail breaks near the base, your dog's tail may require a cast. In the most extreme cases, such as severe nerve damage in addition to the fracture, the tail may need to be amputated.
Happy Tail Injury
When your dog wags its tail, it typically means they are happy. However, if your dog is constantly wagging their tail and the tail is constantly hitting the dining room table, your favorite chair, or the bedroom door, your dog's tail can actually become injured.
The injury is called a "happy tail" injury and can lead to several problems, including sores and ulcers. You can cover the ulcers and get antibiotics to clear up any infection, but it won't provide a permanent solution. In some cases, your veterinarian might recommend surgically shortening your dog's tail, which will prevent future injuries.
Limber Tail
Otherwise known as acute caudal myopathy, limber tail is a condition that affects the muscles in your dog's tail. If your dog wags their tail constantly, which can occur when your dog is running and playing or is simply excited, the muscles can become weak and overexerted.
If your dog's tail seems limp or your dog is in pain, contact your vet. The best treatment for limber tail is to allow your dog to rest and allow their tail to heal.
From limber tail to a fracture, there are several common injuries that can occur to your dog's tail. It is important to find a veterinarian you can trust to help when your dog suffers from a tail injury.
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