In general, gradual onset limps in dogs are caused by an underlying, chronic or degenerative condition, such as osteoarthritis or dysplasia. Sudden onset limps, on the other hand, are usually caused by an injury or trauma. Just because your dog has a gradual limp does not mean you should put off making an appointment.
If lameness persists for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary care.
If the limp doesn't begin to resolve itself, is becoming worse, or is accompanied with whining or yelping, it's time to call your vet or visit your nearest emergency vet. Your veterinarian has the training and knowledge to best determine the cause and severity of your pup's pain.
If your puppy is limping but still playing, this is probably a sign of a superficial injury. Superficial injuries can include: Cuts or scrapes from stepping on something sharp. Burns from stepping on the hot pavement.
Sometimes limping will go away on its own, especially if you provide some at-home support like a brace. Other times limping may be a sign of a more serious injury or condition that will require veterinary intervention.
Contact your vet as soon as you can if you discover something painful. If you think your dog is limping because of inflammation, alternate between ice and heat packs to lower the level of swelling and discomfort. Call your veterinarian to ask them when you should be applying the packs.
Lameness in dogs is often the sign of a painful condition, such as a pulled muscle, broken bone or sprained ligament. Some limps require emergency veterinary attention as the injuries causing the limp may be the result of a serious accident or trauma.
The treatment that your vet prescribes will depend on the cause of the limping and can be as simple as a few days of rest and some anti-inflammatories, or it may require surgery and rehabilitation. Bandages, splints, and physical therapy may be needed and sometimes a supplement for joint health is prescribed.
Can I walk my dog if it has a limp? You should rest your dog for at least two days if you notice a limp. Rest means lead exercise only and short 5 -10 minute walks at a time.
Limping or lameness in dogs can range in concern from a minor bruise or object stuck in paw to a serious injury or condition. If your dog limps on and off, it may be due to joint pain common in older dogs, or it could be your dog's ability to mask pain.
Whatever the scenario, if a dog's limp hasn't resolved in a week or two, it's time for a veterinarian to figure out what is going on. A chronic limp is almost never an emergency, but you should make the appointment as soon as possible.
Be prepared for a minimum recovery time frame of four to six weeks. The road to recovery for your pet must be a slow one. The prognosis is good, though sporting or working dogs may not recover to the level of ability present before the injury.
They'll likely try to avoid surgery as a first line of treatment unless a tendon or ligament is torn. In a typical plan to treat strains and sprains, your vet may tell you to: Give your dog nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to ease inflammation. Make sure to ask what is safe to give them.
If the leg hasn't assumed an odd angle, your dog has either suffered a clean break, a minor fracture such as a cracked bone, or no fracture at all. If the main visible changes involve swelling and discoloration, suspect a sprain.
To reduce swelling, gently soak your dog's foot and leg in warm water containing plain Epsom salts. The water's motion will aid in promoting healing by enhancing circulation. After using a towel to gently dry it, apply some antibiotic ointment to the leg.
What Are the Treatment Costs for Your Limping Dog? When you go to the vet, you will typically pay the cost of the office visit ranging from $50 – $250, depending on your vet. X-rays, bloodwork, and other diagnostic costs could add at least a few hundred dollars to your total.
When a dog starts holding up one leg, this is a symptom of lameness, and is usually due to some soft tissue injury, trauma, or musculoskeletal orthopedic problem of the particular limb. Occasionally neurological problems of either the discs in the neck or lower back or hip areas can also cause pets to hold up one leg.
While they will be lying down for an extended period, you may still want to provide them with some support that limits how much they can bend their sprained joint. That is when you would want to use a soft splint or wrap like the Walkin' Wrist Hugger or Walkin' Hock Hugger.
Once the veterinarian has evaluated the sprain she will give it one of three grades: Grade I - Only a minor part of the ligament is torn and the joint is still functional; some swelling and pain are evident, but the dog usually is able to walk.
Grade I sprains are considered relatively minor, require minimal care, and take a few weeks to heal fully. Grade II sprains will improve with treatment, such as the use of a splint or anti-inflammatory medication. These sprains take a longer time to heal, especially in cases where your dog must undergo surgery.