My dog's tail is limp after swimming. How can I ease her pain now?

There aren't any supplements or OTC medications that will make Stella feel better right now. I would recommend taking her to the vet for some prescription pain medications. It sounds like she has limber tail, or swimmer's tail, and rest and anti-inflammatories are the best treatment. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/acute-caudal-myopathy-limber-tail

She may have Limber tail syndrome which is basically a sprained tail. The condition can be painful so she may need an anti-inflammatory and pain medications. Have your vet examine her to determine if treatment is needed.

Firstly feel the tail carefully to make sure it is not broken and there are no obvious lacerations or wounds. She may have trapped it in something or simply overused it and hence it could be painful or sprained. She could have been bitten in the tail or have a wound which has got infected, this can damage it. Sometimes dog's tails become fatigued after being in cold water for a long time, it can cause the muscles to seize up. If you find any sign of infection, wounds or possible damage take her to the vet for treatment. Otherwise give her time and it should improve with rest.

This could indicate a fracture of her tail or dislocation as the tail has joints just like the rest of the body. It could also indicate an anal gland issue or even a problem with the lumbosacral joint. Do not give your dog in a human medication as it could be toxic to dogs. I recommend having your dog seen by her veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian as she may need x-rays to diagnose the problem as well as dog safe medication for pain. keep her quiet and restrict her activity until she can be seen by veterinarian and do not try to manipulate the site at all.

A limp, painful tail can happen with a tail sprain or ‘swimmer’s tail’, but can also be a sign of a fracture or neurologic disease. Even though you are far from home it sounds like Wilbur may be in pain, so it would be a good idea to have him examined by an emergency vet near you.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This would warrant a veterinary evaluation for further assessment and treatment. These types of traumatic lesions can result in a fracture of the tail which can be quite painful. Even when a fracture is not present, this tends to result in a lot of pain. They would be able to evaluate her and at the very least start medications for pain. Good luck and have a good night!

Poor Rockie. She sounds like she is in pain. Rest her tonight. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to potty on a leash and bring her right back in when she’s done. Have her seen by a vet in the morning if she is still acting like this. Best of luck.