My active Lab limps after play. Should I rest him or see a vet?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 12th, 2018

  The best thing you can do is to force him to rest for a few days. Continue is joint supplement and add in a fish oil for additional omega 3 fatty acids. Once he stops limping, I would be sure to exercise him daily. Start out with short times. The best exercise is slow steady exercises like walking or short swims. Too much running or sprints (ball chasing) can make them hurt themselves. If you have steps or hills, this is also a good method of training to do occasionally for short periods of time to help keep their rear leg muscles strong. Finally, if the limping isn't improving, worsens or he isn't bearing any weight on that leg, I would have your vet take a look at him. Your vet will be able to prescribe meds for arthritis or pain if needed. I hope this helps!

  

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  Answered By Marcy McKeithen, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 11th, 2017

  I am so sorry your dog is having issues with his back leg. The best recommendation at this time is to rest him for at least 2 weeks. So, no exercise, no long walks, leash-walks to do "his business" only, no running, no jumping, no swimming. If he has a mild soft tissue injury like a strain or sprain, this may heal it. However, if after these two weeks, he still has pain OR if he is still limping even with no activity during these two weeks, you should have him evaluated by your vet. Your vet will do a full orthopedic exam and examine all the joints in that leg to localize where the pain is. They may even recommend xrays at this time depending on what they find. Your vet would be looking for ligament damage, hip problems, or small fractures. An anti-inflammatory spray will likely not help if the damage is internal. If he will tolerate the warm compress, this may be helpful, but for now, rest is the most important. I hope he feels better soon.

  

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  Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 5th, 2017

  Poor pup! In large breed dogs, joint problems are common, and it could be that he has torn or partially ruptured his cranial cruciate ligament, and/or done meniscal damage to his knee. 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. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

  

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