Posted by Diane Stepple on January 30, 1998 at 08:33:53:
In Reply to: Medical Problem posted by Vickie on January 18, 1998 at 08:10:23:
> I hope someone can help me with this question.
> My aunt has a Pekingese that keeps biting its tail. The vet
> recommends that she have the tail removed ...
Good heavens! What an extreme step to take by your vet. Never heard of vets advice like that before.
> The dog has been placed on Prozac and this does not seem to
> help. Is this a common medical problem in Pekingese?
No a peke biting his tail is not a normal medical problem in pekes.
They will usually bite their tail if it is ichy, check for dandruff, hot spot, or open leasions.
Or some will do it if bored, just find something for him to focus his mind on, such
as a good chew bone, toy, whatever. You can even try putting "bitter apple" (
which a product that will stop dogs from chewing things) on his tail hair, it tastes terrible
and they hate the taste of it.
I'd maybe look into finding another vet and get a second opinion.