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LauraLounsberry · Sep 26, 2011, 04:31 AM

I'd like to know from you vets out there about what I can do for a pup with otherwise possible show potential with a broken tail. The pup was delivered by breech presentation that has a kink in the very distal portion of her tail. She is 2 days old now. What can be done to set straight? I also had experience with a kitten of mine having this. She had to have it amputated due to arthritis in it the very first year. I don't want to do this, as this pup is a golden, and the tail is one of their trade marks. I also think she may have show potential. Can my vet break and reset it, and when is the best time to do this? Tried to attach a pic, but failed

shazamataz · Sep 26, 2011, 06:13 AM

It depends on the damage done to the tail, if there is a nerve problem then there is not much that can be done as it's a possibility the tail may end up being limp.

If there is no nerve damage and just bone then it is possible to splint the tail, but in such a young pup that will be growing quickly you run the risk of cutting off the blood flow if it is not monitored carefully.

Another option is that the tail is not broken but simply deformed, defomities can be fairly common and I have seen many dogs with kinks in their tails that have been there since birth.

And yet another option is that it may just be dislocated. So as you can see we really cannot give you an answer.

Your best bet is to get this pup in to your vet for a proper diagnosis, they should have been in for their 24 hour check-up already anyway.

Lucky098 · Sep 26, 2011, 07:16 AM

There isn't much that can be done with broken tails. You could try and set it yourself and splint it. That's about all I can think of. Maybe your vet has a different approach.

Show potential at two days old?? Ummm... Ok

paleophlatus · Sep 27, 2011, 02:06 PM

If you're not certain it is broken, or whatever, then you can't devise a proper plan (if there is one) to fix it.

Best have your vet determine what it is FIRST, and get his idea on correction.. You can get a copy of the x-ray to take with you to other vets, if you just ask. It is yours, after all. I think any surgery to 'fix' this may best be delayed until the pup has more development.

Another example of the 'fun' in trying to raise and show dogs. The 'most promising' puppies seem to always have a problem of some sort.