Have you ever twisted your ankle after a misstep? Ever woken up with a sore or stiff leg? As we know it, life is full of dangers that can cause discomfort or injuries, leading to limping. But how can you tell your dog’s limping needs attention? Limping in dogs isn’t normal, and you may need to notify a veterinarian at our animal hospital.

Spotted limping in your dog? Book an appointment with Mission Veterinary Clinic and Animal Emergency Hospital serving Granada Hills, CA, to establish the cause and offer prompt treatment.

Causes of Limping in Dogs

There are numerous reasons why your dog may be limping. Injuries are the leading cause of limping in dogs. Many injuries are visible, but others need veterinary workup to determine the cause and location. 

Here are the common causes of limping in dogs:

• Joint dislocation
• Bruising
• Sprains and strains
• Bone fractures
• Autoimmune diseases
• Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis
• Wounds
• Paw pad trauma
• A lodged foreign object, e.g. a thorn, needle, etc.
• Congenital disorders
• Cancer affecting bones and joints
• Neurological problems

While many causes of limping in dogs can affect any leg, others affect the front or back legs only. But whether you have seen your dog limp in one or more legs, it’s a cause of concern, and you should notify a veterinarian on our team.

Treatment for Limping in Dogs

Consult a vet on our team if you have any questions about the medication, you are giving your dog. Treating your dog can commence after a proper diagnosis. We may rely on physical examination, x-rays, bloodwork, and other lab tests to establish why your dog is limping. 

Treatments depend on the cause and the severity. Some may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Nutrition supplements
• Bandages and casts
• Physical therapy
• Laser therapy
• Weight management
• Surgery

Home Care

If the cause of the limping is mild, home care can alleviate pain and improve mobility. For instance, if your dog has a minor wound, clean with water to eliminate bacteria. Minor swelling can be addressed by resting and applying a cold compress to the area. Tiny objects stuck in the paw can be removed using tweezers. 

If you aren’t sure about the home care remedies, contact a veterinarian at our animal hospital. And if your dog has undergone surgery to correct limping, follow the aftercare procedure to hasten recovery.

Contact Us for Our Veterinary Services from a Veterinarian at Our Animal Hospital 

Want to know more about limping in dogs? If you are in Granada Hills, CA, and the surrounding areas, book an appointment with us at Mission Veterinary Clinic and Animal Emergency Hospital. Call us at (818) 363-8143.