Docking a Lamb's "injured" tail.

[SilkiesForEver]

I have a little ram who's mother died, so now I am bottle feeding it. It is a Dorper, so we don't dock our lamb's tails, normally. However, this little lamb has had his tail "chewed". Something chewed it down to only about 2-3 inches left of tail. The tail muscle is still attached, but is dry and a little shriveled.
I will post pictures soon.

My question is: Should I dock his tail? He is about 3 days old, so around the age to do it. Would it be better than leaving the end of the tail on?

 

[SilkiesForEver]

Here are some pictures.

 

[Chickerdoodle13]

I would just go ahead and do a clean dock to prevent infection from setting in on the damaged portion.

 

[SilkiesForEver]

Thanks. I think I will go ahead and do it.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

I'd not go any shorter as long as it's not showing signs of infection

 

[SilkiesForEver]

I'd not go any shorter as long as it's not showing signs of infection

So you think I should leave it?
I'm worried about docking it (haven't yet, still need to make the trip to the feedstore) since it would be docked close to the bone. Is that normal?

 

[Chickerdoodle13]

I didn't realize it would be that close to bone. If that is the case, you can leave it. Keep a close eye for infection and give a shot of antibiotics if you are worried. Hopefully the dried up portion will just fall off on its own.

 

[WallabyOfChaos]

It is considered acceptable to dock up to the caudal folds of the tail. They still have about a 2 to 3 inch nub when they are fully grown, which is plenty to keep their sensitive parts covered.



If he were mine, I would dock him if he had enough tail left to do so. Regardless of whether you dock him or not I think he could use a tetanus shot if you haven't given one already.

 

[ScottnLydia]

I would have to agree with Wallaby, although I would consider surgical removal. I'm really concerned that the exposed stump of spinal cord is an avenue for infection, and infection of the spinal cord can be disastrous.

Just my opinion. Good luck!

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Quote: At the most, I'd trim off only the dead tissue at the very end , but without reopening the wound, and just give some antibiotics and a Tetanus booster
2-3" is already as short as I'd want it to be.

If there's no discharge or foul odor, it's already healing