When a dog has difficulty moving or walking normally, it is called lameness. The degree of lameness varies. A minor injury is one that causes the animal’s short leg to touch the ground, while a major injury is one that damages the entire leg. Claudication can occur suddenly or over time, affect many people, and have many causes. Let’s learn what to do in this situation.
What should I do if my dog limps? What causes lameness in dogs? Lameness in dogs can have many causes, depending on whether it affects the front or hindquarters. It is important to remember that this can have many causes and affects dogs of all ages, including small, medium, large or large breeds as well as children and the elderly.
Lameness due to root damage
Lameness can result from injury in the following situations:
- After a shallow or deep cut on one side, toe or toe;.
- There is a foreign object stuck to the dog’s paw;;
- In case of ligament sprains; For joint, hip or ankle dislocations;
- When the cruciate ligament at the level of the patella is ruptured;
- If the Achilles tendon is ruptured or dislocated.
- If there is any damage.
In the following cases, traumatic claudication is considered if it does not occur: If your pet suffers from a paw disease (such as poliodermatitis, foot disease, etc.). Elbow or hip dysplasia is a joint condition that can affect middle-aged and older children.
For osteoarthritis.
In the case of inflammatory arthritis;.
For neurological conditions.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Dysfunction is a degenerative disease that commonly affects children, large, medium and older dogs.
If you have shoulder tendinitis. In case of patellar dislocation.
Osteochondrosis is a bone growth defect that commonly affects small and medium-sized dogs. This occurs at the shoulder or knee. Cancer if you suffer from bone diseases (panosteitis, hypertrophic osteodystrophy, etc.).
What should I do if my dog is lame due to lameness?
Take action as soon as you see your dog limping. This is because the character of the lameness is always abnormal. Before giving permission, it is important to contact your veterinarian as quickly as possible to examine the animal and make a diagnosis. In fact, as we have seen, the causes of lameness are multiple. Although some cases are mild, others can be serious, even in healthy children or older dogs. However, you can take care of your little partner while waiting for your consultation. Let’s take a look at the steps you can take to get insurance for you or your pet.
Drop off the Dog
To protect your legs from damage and weakness, rest first. To avoid excessive walking, keep your pet on a leash and limit its trips to the toilet only. Check the injured leg.
If the cause of the lameness is external and obvious, it can be confirmed by examining the extremities. But be careful. Even the most affectionate dog can become aggressive and attempt to bite its owner if it is injured. Avoid unnecessary adventures. If your pet is not moving or working, ask your veterinarian for advice. Another recommended option is to place a muzzle on your dog’s nose while he is being treated to prevent violent attacks. If he allows you to touch him, take good care of his limbs. Wounds, broken or infected nails, or foreign bodies may be seen. If you can safely remove the foreign body and your pet allows it, you can. Then clean the area thoroughly with a non-stinging antiseptic. If you have a wound, you should wash it immediately with clean water, dry it thoroughly with a clean or sterile cloth and disinfect it with an antibiotic. If possible, you should cover the wound with a loose bandage while you wait with your veterinarian to prevent infection.
Don’t Treat Yourself
Under no circumstances feed your dog yourself, even if he is sick. This can make the situation worse. Do not give your dog ibuprofen, aspirin or paracetamol as they are toxic to dogs.
Visit the vet with your dog
Make sure your dog is comfortable in the car during your vet visit. Strictly maintain a minimum if pain and lameness are significant to prevent your dog from injury. Naturally, do this as slowly as possible to avoid additional pain. If possible, you can wrap your dog in a blanket and hold him in your arms.
When should pet owners see their veterinarian for lameness?
As already mentioned, if you see your dog limping, you should call your veterinarian immediately. If your pet has an injury or foreign body, your veterinarian can examine the area to determine treatment and prevention. When the cause of lameness is hidden, it is important to carry out a proper assessment. Your dog will be examined or taken to your home so that your veterinarian can monitor his progress and overall health. The location must be correct. Your veterinarian may perform additional tests based on suspicion as part of the initial evaluation. X-rays, ultrasound, arthroscopy, myelography and even blood tests can be used for accurate diagnosis, diagnosis and treatment planning.