Potential risk factors for limber tail revealed
Limber tail, which causes the tail to become limp and painful, mostly affects working dogs such as Labrador retrievers.
A new study offers clues on the habits and lifestyle factors that play a part in 'limber tail' - a painful condition that mostly affects larger working dogs such as Labrador retrievers.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh say the condition, which causes the tail to become limp and painful, may be more common than previously thought.
As the symptoms tend to last for only a few days or weeks, cases are often not reported to vets, which researchers believe is why the condition's prevalence has been so underestimated.
The team compared 38 cases of limber tail, which were identified from owners' reports about their dog's health, to 86 dogs with no tail symptoms. The study formed part of the Dogslife project, which tracks the health and wellbeing of 6,000 UK dogs.
While the majority of dogs in the study were pets, those affected by limber tail were more likely to be working dogs, researchers say.
Dogs with the condition tended to live in northern areas, which supports anecdotal reports that limber tail is linked with cold weather. Some but not all dogs had been swimming prior to the onset of symptoms.
Labradors that had suffered from the condition were more likely to be related to one another than unaffected dogs, which could suggest there is an underlying genetic risk. It is hoped that further studies will identify genes linked with the condition, so breeders will one day be able to identify animals that are likely to be affected.
Commenting on the findings, lead author Dr Carys Pugh said: "We have been able to add evidence to a lot of internet speculation about risk factors and the new findings relating to geographical region and family links give us avenues to pursue in understanding and avoiding the condition."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
