My dog suddenly started limping. What should I do? When to see a vet?

Question

Walking dog suddenly started limping. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 24 lbs

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

Of your dog has started to suddenly limp on a hind leg it is likely that he damaged his knee or a cruciate ligament. But it could also be a sprain or an injury. Check the affected leg starting by inspecting the paw inbetween the toes and pads for a foreign body lodged in it or an injury. Then check every toe muscle and bone moving up the leg to the hip. THis should tell you where it hurts. He needs to rest and only leash walk to do his business. If you find a wound that appears infected or you pulled a thorn or similar out of the paw, you can bathe it in a warm epsom salt solution several times a day which should keep your dog comfortable until you can see a veterinarian. If you find other areas hurting and your dog is in pain you may want to see a vet tonight for an exam and pain medicine. If he does not appear too painful you can wait until Monday to see a vet.

My dog suddenly started limping. What should I do? When to see a vet?

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