Why is my dog suddenly walking gingerly with a lump on her leg?

Question

Yesterday, a lump was found on my dog's right hind leg. Before I discovered it, I noticed she jumped up in the vehicle; but fell back a bit. She was walking fine yesterday; but today, she's walking VERY gingerly and wouldn't step up into the house. I carried her. When I touch it and feel the lump, she doesn't respond like it's hurting. What can this possibly be? She's lying around and she's still eating well. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 16 years and 9 months old | 24 lbs

Ana M, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Sage. Her mobility issues are most likely untelated to the new bump. She may be experiencing an exacerbation of age related arthritis if she fell a bit from the vehicle. This could make her very sore. Keep her quiet and do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. She will need to see her veterinarian for an exam and possibly x-rays. Pain medication will likely be prescribed as well. The mass can be evaluated as the same appointment. A procedure known as a fine needle aspirate is commonly performed. The veterinarian will collect a small sample of cells to evaluate under the microscope. This will let you know if the mass is cancerous or not. It is a rare for a mass to affect mobility, but it is possible. I hope this information helps!

Why is my dog suddenly walking gingerly with a lump on her leg?

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