Expert: The Bulldog Lady - you can e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 10/31/2009

Question
My English Bulldog, Sam, has had a terrible infection in the cleft under his tale for over a year now.  My husband and I clean it 1 - 2x/day and he takes Simplicef every now and then when it gets really bad.  This anitbiotic no longer provides even short term relief.  The vet said that the tail needs to be removed.  He will be 4 years old in December.  How risky is this surgery and do you have any advice on how I can get the insurance company to pay some portion of the $2500 bill.  We have VPI. (He eats bulldog specific food - can't remember the name)

Answer
cork screw bulldog tail surgery;  I am glad you cancelled the surgery for now.  
YOU can always do it later on if you have no other choice....
With good food, supplements and proper cleaning, you should be able to avoid surgical removal of the tail.


Hi Alexis, bulldog tail removal;  Please try to AVOID any tail removal surgery....
*** Oh, boy can that cause problems with stools and the muscles in the anal area.
I sure do understand your concern about the cork screw tail.  
Many Vets try NOT to cut the tail on an English bulldog.  The main reason is because it can cause damage to the anal nerves.  
In turn, making the poop situation even worse.
 ***Some dogs have loose poops forever after having a tail removed or cut.

How about we try the following -

First, make sure your boy is on a good food that is quality...
NO Royal Canin - Try EVO, CORE, any of the Grain-free foods ....
Wellness, Innova, Merrick, Solid Gold -
( all sold at the local pet store)-
If you need more help with a quality food, I can send some links.

Next - add 1/2 of a  metamucil cookie to his diet each day -
~~~ Metamucil makes a fiber cookie that is apple flavored - JUST (1/2 to 1) per day will give him the fiber he needs to have solid and Clean poops.
If does look like a flat cookie and tastes is Good!

Lets clean his area ( anal area ) with a baby wipe at least 1 x per day - Make sure it is the Unscented baby wipes for humans.  You can use some witch hazel on the baby wipe -
If the area smells a bunch use some Dog / Puppy shampoo - JUST a dab on the baby wipe..
Also, apply Pure corn starch - with a q-tip, into the folds... Helps to keep them dry and free of Yeast infections.

NuVET for Bulldogs:

Also - Too KEEP infection away -

*** Use some NuVET Plus - This is a Skin healer and Immune System Blaster / Wonderful and one of the BEST bullie vitamins in the USA.
You can call 1-800-474-7044 and ask for the 60 day trial / Make sure they know Pet Nurse Marie Peppers has sent you.  (or see link here):

order here: see my bullie dogs at this site:
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html
This is a LONG term must for your baby:  GETS rid of yeast and infections - will help to keep him healthy for a lifetime.
Start with 2 per day for 10 days and then go to (1 1/2) per day , long term


Good luck with all !!!

KEEP me posted - here is my private e-mail:

Marie Peppers LPN MA
ask the Pet Nurse
mtnmom@gci.net