How to Clean a Tail Pocket
Taking care of your wrinkly dog is a big responsibility. One area that might get overlooked is their tail. Some wrinkly dogs such as English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs have a tail pocket. If not cleaned regularly, tail pockets can become a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to infections. In this article, we will discuss what a tail pocket is and how to keep it clean and protected from bacteria and infection.
What is a tail pocket?
Tail pockets are small indentations located just beneath the dog's tail and formed by a fold of wrinkly skin. Depending on the dog, it may be near the top of the tail, or around the tail. Tail pockets often just look like a dimple in your dog's butt until you look more closely. Although Wrinkly dogs are more prone to tail pockets, not all of them have one. Dogs with tight corkscrew tails are most likely to have a tail pocket. To find out if your dog has a tail pocket, use your finger covered with a Wrinkle Wipe to gently probe around your dog's tail looking for an indentation or pocket. If your dog is still young, you will want to check them often until they are fully grown since tail pockets sometimes form later when they grow into their wrinkles.
Why is it important to keep a tail pocket clean?
Tail pockets can easily trap dirt and debris or hold moisture. They become a breeding ground for bacteria if they are not cleaned regularly. This can lead to infections, which can cause discomfort and other health issues for your dog.
How do I keep my wrinkly dog's tail pocket clean?
When bathing your dog, use a hypoallergenic shampoo, and be sure to gently wash inside the tail pocket. Although baths are important, bathing your wrinkly dog too much can lead to a loss of essential oils causing their skin to become dry and flaky. In between baths, a great option is to use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes. Use the wipe to clean in and around the area until all the dirt and debris have been removed. Make sure you’re gentle when cleaning this area because a dog’s tail pocket can be irritated and sensitive.
After cleaning the area, be sure to dry the tail pocket completely. Moisture can easily be trapped in the pocket and cause bacteria to build up and form an infection. Follow up with a little bit of Squishface Wrinkle Paste in the area. Wrinkle Paste forms a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus, and other bacteria away.
Both Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Wrinkle Paste are gentle enough for even the most sensitive and allergy-prone dogs because created specifically for sensitive skin dogs prone to allergies, and intentionally leave out common and unnecessary irritants such as essential oils, aloe, fragrance, and lanolin.
What do I do if my wrinkly dog's tail pocket seems infected?
If you notice a red or swollen tail pocket, discharge, or a very unpleasant odor, your dog's tail pocket may be infected. Contact your vet right away. Your vet will likely prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection.
The Bottom Line:
No pun intended. :)
If you have a wrinkly dog such as an English Bulldog, French Bulldog, or Pug, you will want to check to see if they have a tail pocket. If they do, be sure to keep the area clean, dry, and protected using Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Wrinkle Paste.
Read more on our informative guide about wrinkly doggo's tail pockets; from discovering what a tail pocket is, how to find it, and how to ensure it stays clean.
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