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Question:

Tail Tip Necrosis - How is my dog's wound going?

I’m stressing out a bit about my dog's tail, and I could really use some advice. A few weeks ago, I noticed that the tip of my dog's tail was looking a bit off, and the vet confirmed it was tail tip necrosis. We’re treating it as they recommended, keeping it clean and bandaged, and trying to make sure he doesn't wag it too much (which is impossible because, you know, dogs!). But I’m worried about how it’s healing. The tip still looks kind of dry and scabby, and I’m terrified it’s going to get worse. Any tips on what to watch out for or how to make the healing process smoother? He's my first dog, so I'm all sorts of worried about doing something wrong. Any advice or personal experience you can share would really help calm my nerves! Thanks in advance!

Answer:

Hello there!



I'm sorry to hear your dog is dealing with a tail tip wound. Tail tip necrosis is essentially when the tissue at the end of the tail starts breaking down and potentially dying, often due to trauma (like wagging against hard surfaces), infections, or circulation issues.



At home, you'll want to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Gently clean the wound with mild, non-irritating antiseptic solutions. Keeping your dog from biting or licking the area is important too, so consider using an Elizabethan collar if needed.



Monitor the wound closely for any signs of worsening such as increased redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor, which could indicate infection. Additionally, watch for changes in your dog’s behavior, like increased pain, lethargy, or loss of appetite—these are signs to seek urgent veterinary care.



While these steps can help manage the situation, it's essential to have your dog's wound evaluated by a professional. I recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can assess the severity, recommend treatments, and make sure your dog is on the mend in no time.



Take care, and we’re here when you need us!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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