Amputation Neuroma of Docked Tails in Dogs

Six dogs with docked tails were presented with histories of severe self-trauma to the site of amputation. Breeds in-cluded five Cocker Spaniels and one Miniature Poodle. The animals had first developed the disorder within several months to a year after tail docking and had been repeatedly examined for anal or rectal disease over a period of several years. Anal sacculectomy had been performed in four dogs. Physical examination revealed skin lesions compatible with chronic self trauma to the tip of the docked tail. There was alopecia, and the skin was lichenified and hyperpigmented. Skin was focally adhered to underlying connective tissue of the tail that was diffusely thickened and firm. The lesions of all affected dogs were exquisitely sensitive, as evidenced by only mild pressure eliciting a severe pain response. The affected distal stump of the tail, including the distal