Is his tail damaged??? ‘Limp Tail,’ ‘Limber tail,’ ‘Lifeless tail,’ ‘Swimmers tail”, and ‘Chilly tail’ in Labradors

Query: My 5-year-old Labrador roughhoused with a youthful canine all afternoon. Tonight his tail is limp, and he can’t transfer. I believe he might have damaged his tail. It hurts as a result of he walks away from me after I contact it. Did he break it whereas enjoying? What ought to I do?

Reply:  At any time when these traits are noticed, make an appointment instantly with a veterinarian to get them checked out.

Diagram by Canine Works

He might have strained a muscle, tendons, or ligaments that really assist his tail and make it wag!

This problem normally seems immediately as a flaccid tail hanging straight down, or is held out a number of inches, then hangs down. The bottom is normally tender and could also be swollen. The canine might act torpid from ache.

As well as, the situation normally happens in sporting and dealing breeds (Labs are within the Sporting Group), after a tough exercise, extended swimming, prolonged time in a crate, or publicity to chilly, moist climate.

Remedy:  Relaxation and an anti-inflammatory. Restoration takes a few week. Nonetheless, it’s vital to see your vet. The tail damage could possibly be extra critical and might have a unique prescribed remedy to hurry up the restoration course of.