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My dog has chronic hip pain. When should I take her to the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 7 months old | 4 lbs

It seems that our little angel has been in pain for the past few months. She doesn't let us touch her hind leg and it seems that her hip is hurting because if I touch the place where it's hurting she screams and jumps and bit. She is very playful and tends to jump a bit while playing. I've been trying to keep her rested but she's really energetic. Should I take her to the veterinarian tomorrow morning or just wait a bit more to see if she'll be feeling better after a while? Thanks for the help

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on December 16th, 2016

Bella should be assessed by a vet as soon as possible - the pain hasd bnot resolved over the last feew months and is unlikely to do so now at this stage. She will likely need sedation and xrays to assess the exact nature of the injury and pain and your vet can prescribe medication to help with the pain at this time

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Since it has been months, Bella should be seen by your veterinarian or by a veterinary orthopedic specialist. A physical exam and xrays may provide a diagnosis. At the very least, the vet can prescribe pain management. In the meantime, continue to restrict her activity as best as you can. Leash walk her and avoid excessive running. jumping and rough play.

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