If you have a limping dog and are not sure as to what could be causing it to limp there are several different factors that could be causing it to have this problem. Here is a look at some of these problems and a look at some ways to help them.
Younger dogs just before they reach the first year of life tend to be clumsy. They also love to wander around which can increase the chances of meeting accidents. However, little management is needed since symptoms of dog limping can resolve in following week. For suspected fractures, your pet can benefit from temporary immobilization of the affected part. Furthermore, during the first 24 hours of injury, bruises and swelling will subside if applied with cold compress.
Dog limping is self-limiting if it occurred before the puppy reached the first year of life. It is expected that your pet will regain functional status of the affected limb in a matter of weeks. For a much reliable diagnosis and treatment of the cause of dog limping, expert evaluation and opinion form a veterinarian should be sought. Routine physical examination and evaluation of the body's functionality is initially done with subsequent laboratory evaluation as necessary. This will aid in the selection of special treatment needed for the particular case.
Careful observation is necessary for severe cases of dog limping since it can be a potential threat to loss of functional ability. To give appropriate treatment and care, your pet needs further evaluation by a veterinarian.
A veterinarian will look at your limping dog and try to determine which joint may be causing your dog to limp. Often times these problems can be found by swelling in the area, extra heat or pain in the joint area. Just as each dog is different they will react differently to the pain. Some dogs will yelp right away if you were to touch the aching joint whereas some dogs will not react at all or very little in which case your veterinarian may have to do an X-ray to determine which joints are affected.
Cases of dog limping not involving the joints include short trimmed nails, ingrown toenails, deep punctured wounds, and paw lacerations. These should be treated appropriately to prevent future complications. Lacerations and punctures should be cleansed thoroughly to since infection is possible.
If you are concerned over your limping dog it is always a good idea to talk to their veterinarian about any of your concerns. Often they will be able to go over any other possibilities and assist you in working out ways to help your pet feel better and help them get around even with their limp.
David Cheng is a competent writer who writes articles about arthritis in dogs. He has been writing for sites such as this to share his background in arthritis in dogs with others.




