Expert: Alan J Turner, SATS LL1 - 12/4/2007

Question
We have had our dog Dudley for ten years now.  He is a terrier mix that we adopted.  We have moved four times in the last thirteen years and this last move seems particulary difficult for Dudley.  We moved from Ohio to Minnesota, he was board for two weeks before the move because of movers in and out of the house and then we traveled to our daughter's wedding.  We picked Dudley up and made the two day drive to Minneapolis.  I understand that being stressful for him, but its been six weeks, almost seven and his tail still hangs down on a daily basis.  Even when I sit and pet him.  Normally it would be curled up and wagging.  We have been very attentive to his needs since moving.  Taking him outside often and giving him extra attention. I just don't understand why his tail would be hanging down so often, its definitely not normal behavior for him.  The rest of his behavior is consistent to what he has always been. What can I do to get back my happy dog?

Answer
Dear Kimberly,
Thanks for the note. I agree with you - yes, moves can be stressful but 6 weeks should be enough time to recuperate. Perhaps he contracted some sort of illness at the kennel? I would have him checked by your vet. I strongly suspect that he is unhappy due to medical illness. Good luck. Thanks for writing.