Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is limping and licking his paw. What to do until the vet opens?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog is not using is not putting much weight on his front paw and licking it a lot. I think he has a sprained paw. What should we do for treatment. Normally we'd just go to our vet but they are closed because it's Saturday. I don't think this is an emergency as well but want to feel like we have a treatment plan for the next 2 days until our normal vet can see him

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 18th, 2017

This is a great question! I agree that it may not be an emergency, and I will give you a treatment plan for the next few days. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor pup! Your plan of waiting until to see your local vet until Monday seems reasonable for this type of injury. Through the weekend, keep your dog from running, jumping, and playing by confining him to a very small room or crate to prevent exacerbation of any injury. Do not give any over the counter pet or human medication (including aspirin) until he can be examined by his vet!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a skin issue. Is it mites or ringworm? What's the treatment?
Concerned about Spiky's unknown condition? A certified veterinarian discusses potential mite infestation or ringworm, stressing professional diagnosis and treatment.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?
Ouch! Does your pet have a painful hangnail? Dr. Melanie, a certified veterinarian, provides expert guidance on safe trimming or when to seek professional vet care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My Degu lost a nail. Is this serious? What should I do to help?
Is your degu's lost nail a serious concern? A Licensed Vet Tech explains how to help your degu, manage bleeding, keep the area clean, and when to see a vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025

Related Brands and Products

Dog Supplies Dog Medicine and Prescriptions Dog Pain Relief & Arthritis Meds Dog Treats & Chews Dog Pain Medicine & Relief Dog Paw & Nail Care Dog Health & Wellness Antifungal Medication for Dogs Dog First Aid & Recovery Electrolytes for Dogs Vet's Best Dog Pain Medicine & Relief Zymox Dog Pain Medicine & Relief OxyMed Dog Pain Medicine & Relief Earthbath Dog Pain Medicine & Relief Rimadyl Dog Pain Relief & Arthritis Meds Vetality Dog Pain Medicine & Relief PetAlive Dog Pain Medicine & Relief Vetericyn Dog Pain Medicine & Relief Curicyn Dog Paw & Nail Care Prednisone Dog Pain Relief & Arthritis Meds
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored