Uncurled Tail

[Tait & Finn]

We just returned from vacation and picked Finn up from the sitter. He was in a private home with lots of property to run and got lots of attention. His tail is usually curled straight up in a loop and held up proudly. Since being home (since this morning) his tail just hangs down. I've never seen it like this for more than a minute or two. Even when squatting to poop his tail is hanging down. Weird. Could he have had an injury to his hips or tail while at the sitter? Sore muscles from all the exercise? Or does he just need to get used to being home again. I'm a little concerned. I've emailed the sitter but haven't heard back yet. Anyone experience anything like this? Thanks.

[Linda And Loo]

He could have hurt himself or hurt his tail. I had a dog that when her anal glands were full, her tail would droop. If it does not curl back up soon, I would let the vet take a look! Good luck! Keep us updated! Happy New Year!

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

You need to see a Vet tomorrow! 

Tail injuries are serious. We have had a few very sick dogs on DK this year with tail injuries. Your guess is as good as mine.

Please take him to get help.

I'm so sorry

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

I think I would be concerned as well. Does he appear to be in pain? Is the tail tender to the touch? If it is still hanging tomorrow, I would have it looked at ASAP.

[Tait & Finn]

He does not seem to be in pain. I've gently felt up & down his tail several times and he's not bothered. Acting reasonably the same. Just seems different cuz this tail is wrong. Changes his whole look. I'll check with the vet tomorrow if no improvement.

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

So glad, at least, he is not in pain. Please...do keep us posted. I, for one, interested on the outcome on this one!

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

I'm not on my computer to look it up, but I think it's called Swimmers Tail?
Other than being broke there is an illness that have symptoms of a lame tail.
Please do a search and educate yourself with this serious illness too.

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

Just found this:

http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/8_1/features/15685-1.html

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

Interesting! Had never heard of this!

[Tait & Finn]

Thank you!! I think that's it. A week of heavy running & playing vs. daily walks and the occasional dog park.

I'll keep all posted over the next few days.

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Wow, that's interesting. I know we have had some dogs here with injured tails that ended up having been amputated but this is something new. By the way I have a new (free) app on my iPad now called 'Insights Veterinary' which gives access to lots of medical papers. 

[Linda And Loo]

Ro, I read the article you found on limp tails. Good article! Thanks for sharing!

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

You are very welcome...I had never heard of this. I learned something today!