[DBlain]

that is so sad, Lola is a mix and thankfully carries her tail the way the way your groomers dog does. I have such mixed feelings about doing it later in life so if possible do tons of goggling on this to see if you can find others that have been though this. I do know that Lola's tail is quite long and if she did not carry it up like she does it could be a burden for her because it is rather large and long for her small body. Also a long tail that is not held up could be an accident waiting to happen like getting slammed in a door or caught in something, so I can certainly understand your concern. Is your vet a certified surgeon, if not perhaps seek one out, or find out how many current later in life dockings your vet has done and see if they will let you talk to a few that have had it. I don't know your vet but years ago I went to one of the top vets in town, who I now realize was all about the money, when I talked about how much my first yorkie barked he told me about the debarking operation and make very light of it, well I can tell you it was the most painful recovery for the dog, nothing like he indicated it would be so I am glad you are hear checking all this out. I hope you find people that have had this done because they will be able to give you the best help.

LOL I guess I should answer your question, IMO don't go as short as yorkies you see around, some are docked way to short, go at least 2" or perhaps just above the part that seems to bend weird, or a good surgeon should be able to guide you. Good Luck, I can just imagine how worrisome this must be.

PS I hope you don't mind my comments, I just wish someone was there for me asking me to check more into that first surgery on my dog, I know you will do what is best