Why is My Dog Limping Suddenly? Categories of Limping in Dogs Veterinarians classify limping into two general categories. Gradual Onset Limping Gradual onset is the type of limping that develops slowly over a long period of time. Sudden Limping Sudden limping is the type of limping that develops instantaneously. Karena Joung. Read More. Back to Blog Home. Recent Posts.
About VEG. Close Font Resize. Keyboard navigation. Readable Font. Choose color black white green blue red orange yellow navi. Underline links. Images Greyscale. Invert Colors. Remove Animations. Remove styles. Reset Settings. Accessibility by WAH. Check for bleeding. This will usually provide insight into whether your dog has suffered an injury, puncture, or bite.
Typically, if the limp isn't severe, you can simply monitor your dog's progress at home over hours, watching for more symptoms or to see whether the limp becomes more pronounced. In most cases, it's better to be safe than sorry, and scheduling an appointment with your vet may help both you and your dog to feel better. 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. A thorough examination may include blood work, tick testing, or x-rays. Your dog's breed, history, age, and general health will all be considered in the diagnosis, as well as the prescribed treatment plan. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
Carolina Veterinary Specialists in Matthews accepts new clients to our specialty services by referral only. Based on the answer to when the injury began, the injury can be classified into one of two categories:. Lameness is graded in severity by how much the dog uses their leg, ranging from bearing full weight on it with no signs of favoring it to not putting any weight on the limb at all. The less your pet is willing to use a leg, the more likely they are to need immediate or emergency attention by a vet.
Common causes of non-weight bearing lameness in dogs can include bone fractures, dislocations, snake bites, bee stings, ligament tears, or even bone tumors. A dog who refuses to put weight on an injured leg warrants urgent care to address their pain and treat the underlying problem. The quicker these types of problems are addressed, the more likely the pet is to receive care that returns them to full function.
If your pet allows, examine the affected leg for signs that are different from the other limbs. Carefully evaluate the paw between toes, paw pad, toenails for signs of wounds, swelling, heat, or foreign material foxtails or grass awns. Move up the limb gently to see if there is swelling, redness, discharge, or heat. If the dog is unable to put weight on the leg, do NOT move the leg around as this may displace a fracture if present. Severe bruising is often associated with snake bites, trauma, or wounds that are infected.
A pet that has external signs of significant injury such as swelling, bleeding, open wounds or bruising should be taken to a vet as soon as possible.
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