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My dog suddenly can't walk. Is it an emergency? What do I do now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | unspayed | 9 years and 5 months old | 8 lbs

My dog suddenly can't walk

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 7th, 2018

Not being able to walk all of a sudden is an emergency and you need to take Paris to your vet now. If this is caused by a prolapsed disc, then time is of the essence, ie treatment with NSAIDs, pain medication and strict cage rest as early as possible increases the chance of recuperation. There can be other reasons for not being able to walk, and only a hands-on exam will facilitate a diagnosis. Your vet will want to do radiographs, possibly blood tests and do a thorough orthopedic and neurological exam.

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