Hemivertebrae in Boston Terriers

Note the corkscrew tail in this photo of our Boston Terrier, Shadow

The Corkscrew Tail:

Hemivertebrae (also commonly referred to as "butterfly" vertebrae) is a condition where the vertebrae of the spine are shaped more like triangles than blocks. The breed standard "corkscrew tail" that is so desirable in the Boston Terrier is actually an example of this formation. Although this trait is desirable in the tail, it can cause serious problems when located elsewhere in the spine.

Hemivertebrae results from the failure of the left and right halves of a vertebrae to fuse completely during fetal development. The resulting vertebrae resembles a butterfly when viewed from above. Each half of the vertebrae may also grow at different rates, creating wedge-shaped vertebrae (when viewed vertically).

Wedge-shaped vertebrae may cause dorsal curvature (kyphosis) or lateral curvature (scoliosis) of the spine. Spinal deformities can cause serious problems, including paralysis, if they compress the spinal cord and/or its blood supply.

Symptoms:

Symptoms will depend on the number and the locations of the discs affected. Your veterinarian can assess your dog's spinal formation through the use of x-rays. Ingrown or corkscrew tails can become a serious problem. If the tail grows backwards and down, a gap may develop that can become infected and painful.

Additional Health Concerns:

Boston Terrier - Brachycephalic Syndrome
Boston Terrier - Patellar Luxation
Boston Terrier - Sensorineural Deafness
Boston Terrier - Dental Care
Boston Terrier - Internal Parasites
Boston Terrier Health Problems - Protecting Against Hot and Cold Weather
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