Last Updated on January 20, 2022 by Griselda M.
Bulldogs have tail pockets that can develop infections so in preparation for any health risks bulldog tail pocket infection symptoms need to be known. The wrinkly appearance of bulldogs is its most sought out feature and that comes with a sleuth of health responsibilities.
Bulldogs are prone to a few health issues due to their breeding, but it’s a price worth paying for their unique features. Understanding and preparation are a must with this breed before attempting to bring one into the family. However cute their little tail is, the peril of their skin folds makes itself known here as well.
What Is A Pocket Tail?
A tails pocket is a way of describing a dent or fold in the dog’s skin below its tail. This is a trait predominantly found in dog breeds with no tail or tail stubs that bulldogs and pugs display. Bulldog tail pocket is not a common occurrence for all bulldogs, and there are instances where they won’t have it.
Keeping this pocket clean is a regular grooming requirement, much like all the other folds across their face. Dirt and dust can collect in this indentation and over time irritate the skin and cause infection.
Bulldog Tail Pocket Infection Causes
The genetic predisposition of bulldogs is the reason they have this unique tail feature. Moisture collects in this pocket, along with dust or dirt, and irritates the skin due to friction.
Because their tail stays so close to the body it can block the entrance of their anus. This may cause stool residue to remain in the fold and combine with other dirt. The presence of this residue only adds to the problem. Left unchecked this area turns to infection and causes great discomfort.
Bulldog Tail Pocket Infection Symptoms
Redness and itchiness are among the most common bulldog tail pocket infection symptoms. These can be followed by unpleasant odors, severe inflammation, and pain due to scratching.
The area can display discoloration and hair loss along with abnormal brown fluid discharge. Dryness and flaky skin may also develop as a symptom in some cases. A bulldog’s discomfort is evident if such an infection occurs, from excessive scratching, bitting to scooting on the ground.
Treating Bulldog Tail Pocket Infection Symptoms
There are ways to approach treating a bulldog tail infection at home if it’s caught in its early stages.
Cleaning the area
The basic aspect of starting to treat a bulldog tail pocket infection is cleaning the area. This should start with carefully cleaning the area around and under the tail where the actual ‘pocket’ is. To do this one must gently wipe the area with baby wet wipes, wet cloth, or medicated wipes.
Soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply it over the area. Warm water is a better choice as it will encourage blood circulation to draw antibodies and white blood cells. These will better fight off the infection and encourage healing. Soaking the area with a warm washcloth for around 5 minutes is the recommendation.
Repeat this a couple of times to make sure the area has had a thorough cleaning. This method is a good option to soften debris that may have hardened in time. This can make dirt easier to remove and not further damage the skin while reducing the risk of abscess formation.
It may take a few tries as some dogs could find it ticklish or unpleasant and retreat from it. With a little effort and persistence, the cleaning should go smoothly, especially if encouraged with treats. Some hair trimming is also a good option to have better access and remove a chafing element as well.
Some cases may require using an antiseptic soap or wipes, but this is something to get vet advice beforehand. Bulldog allergies have to be taken into consideration when bringing in any irritant solution like antiseptics.
Drying the area
Once dirt and debris are no longer an issue, the area now needs to dry. Letting it dry on its own is not an option as the fold will not dry out properly. Leaving it wet will also encourage bacterial growth, so with a cotton ball or clean cloth dry it out carefully.
Applying balm
All this process will be a little difficult if inflammation and redness already cause pain. That is why now is the time to apply a soothing balm or antibacterial spray if provided by the vet. This balm should protect against dryness, relieve itchiness and irritation while preventing further infection.
More severe cases will warrant a trip to the vet for some antibiotics for tail pocket infection. Additional veterinary care might also be necessary if the infection has a surplus of pus or has become a wound.
Preventing Bulldog Tail Pocket Infection
It’s always better to prevent infection than to treat it once it’s already established itself into a bulldog’s pocket. Cleaning under their tail is the bare minimum to do in order to prevent infection. Routinely checking the area for any signs of inflammation or redness will keep you alerted of any potential complications.
Making sure the area is dry and treated with balm so that it’s not too dry is another small preventative measure to implement. Some great all-natural antifungal balms can be found on the market to soothe affected areas.
Serious cases of infection need veterinary help, and some solutions could be more extreme than others. If severe infections occur on a regular basis, then some vets will recommend performing a tail amputation. This is a big decision and professional advice and help are most definitely the way to go.
Conclusion
With folds on their face to clean and protect against infection, it’s easy to forget about the bulldog tail pocket. Knowing the early signs of bulldog tail pocket infection symptoms is the most vital step in treating the issue. Bacteria and moisture inside these folds are quite a nuisance for the bulldogs with their skin folds prone to dermatitis.
The sturdy strong bulldog requires attention and care with their skin condition, tail pocket among them. With a few basic preparations ahead of a potential infection, treating it can go smoothly. Regular cleaning and applying balm is still the best way to prevent bulldog tail pocket infection.
