Nothing is more heartbreaking for a dog owner than seeing their pet get hurt. It can be incredibly stressful for the dog and owner as they try to figure out how to ease the pain and discomfort.
Leg injuries are common in dogs, and it’s something most pet parents will have to deal with in their dog’s lifetime. The moment it happens, you might ask yourself—what do I do if my dog hurts its leg?
Today, we’ll take you through how to help a dog with a hurt leg. We’ll also give you tips on determining whether your dog has been severely injured and must be brought to the veterinarian or if you can help them recover at home.
How Can I Tell if My Dog Has Injured Its Leg?
Sometimes it is apparent if an injury has occurred, such as witnessing your dog hit a piece of furniture or take a fall. However, many times your dog may get hurt when nobody is around.
One of the biggest signs to look for when your dog is injured is limping. If your dog is walking strangely or appears to be bearing more weight on one side, it’s likely a sign of pain and discomfort because of an injured leg.
Here are other signs to look out for to know if your dog’s leg has been injured:
- Refusing to move
- Squirming
- Cries of pain while walking
- Excessive weight gain or weight loss due to lack of movement
What Do I Do if My Dog Hurt Its Leg?
Check where the pain is coming from
A quick examination of your dog’s leg may help to determine where the pain might be coming from. Is there a wound or bruise on their skin or a cracked toenail, for example? Do you remember seeing them slip and fall, which may have caused a sprain?
Traumatic injuries can happen, including broken bones, torn ligaments, or other damages. Be sure to take caution during any quick examinations, as your dog may lash out due to sudden pain or discomfort. It’s always best to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian if you believe a traumatic injury has occurred.
Soothe the leg with ice
You can ease the pain and swelling of your dog’s bruise or sprain by applying ice wrapped in a towel on the affected area. Applying an ice pack to the area at least two times a day for 15 minutes each time can promote faster healing and improve stiffness and discomfort for your pet.
Let your dog rest
One of the best things to do if you suspect your dog has a leg injury is allowing them to rest and avoid any strenuous physical activities.
If a sprain causes the pain, keeping them from playing for a few hours is best to help the leg recover. Even if it’s something more serious, the extra rest will give your dog a break from the discomfort.
Physical therapy exercises can be beneficial during this rest period and can alleviate discomfort and improve their mobility post-injury. If your pet seems uncomfortable, hesitant, or reactive to any physical therapy exercises, do not force them to continue, as this may complicate or make an injury more severe.
Visit your trusted veterinarian
Although some leg injuries heal by themselves, others need more serious medical attention. If your dog’s limping lasts more than 1-2 days, or if you see that they’re in intense pain and discomfort when they walk, you’ll need a doctor to check out the injury.
Get surgery if needed
Surgery can be an intimidating option, but–depending upon your veterinarian’s diagnosis–this might be the best way to improve your dog’s walking if they have dislocated joints, torn tendons, or broken bones.
Never Ignore Your Dog’s Limping
If your dog limps or walks in an odd, uncomfortable manner, give them immediate attention. Check to see if they have any wounds or broken bones. Then, care for them with ice packs, physical therapy exercises, and loads of rest.
The best course of action for dogs who limp for a long time is to seek a proper diagnosis from a licensed veterinarian. That way, you can know for sure what might be causing your dog’s lameness and limping and learn the best treatment options for them.
