You are here:

Ask the Veterinarian/Older Lab with Limp Tail

Advertisement

Expert: - 10/27/2008


Question
I'm bringing him to the vet but this is killing me. He's a 12 yr old lab that usually always has his tail curled up - but it's now straight down. And his back end seems a bit tender. As of the last 2 days, he's been super picky with his food too. Does anyone have any ideas what this could be???

Answer
This is called limber tail or cold water tail.  It is unique to labs where their tail will go limp.  We usually give some steroids and wait it out.  It will come back.  But when the tail is limp, they have trouble having a bowel movement, so that area may need some attention.

Ask the Veterinarian

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf

Expertise

Dermatology and ear diseases of dogs and cats

Experience

I am the author of "Small Animal Ear Diseases; An Illustrated Guide" published by W.B. Saunders. I have over 25 years of clinical experience with a special interest in dermatologic conditions and ear diseases.

Organizations
American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology

Publications
Veterinary Forum
Veterinary Medicine
Waltham Focus

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.