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My dog's tail looks bad after surgery. Is waiting safe? Anesthesia risk?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | 10 years and 11 months old

My dog (10 yo) had a lump removed from his tail. However, the tail's blood supply got impared, and the tail got ischemic and may be on the verge of necrosis (see photos). Is this reversible by any chance? Is it safe to wait? If he needs tail amputation, is it dangerous for a dog to get general anesthesia twice, just a week apart? I know general anesthesia is safe in the vast majority of cases, but I wonder if the short period of time between surgeries may change those odds. Thank you in advance!

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 29th, 2017

Great photos! Thank you. So sorry Rio is having this issue. I actually think it is looking pretty good based on the photos. I would give it more time. I would not recommend an amputation at this time. There is no issue for him to have two anesthetic procedures one week apart. I would not be worried about that at all. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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