Young German Shepherd With Fecal Incontinence After a Tail Injury

Tail-pull injuries can stretch or tear the nerves at the base of the spine, which control the bladder, bowel and tail. Nerve function can return slowly over several months, and the fact that her bladder has recovered is an encouraging sign, though recovery of bowel control isn't guaranteed.

Ask your vet, or a veterinary neurologist or rehabilitation specialist, about her outlook and about rehabilitation. Meanwhile, many dogs with this problem live well with good management: feed a highly digestible diet at set times so her stools are firm and predictable, walk her soon after meals so she empties her bowels on schedule, and keep her bottom clean to prevent skin sores. Watch her urine closely, because nerve damage can raise the risk of urine infections.

See fecal incontinence in dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.