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My dog is limping. What safe pain relief can I give before the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 90 lbs

My German Shepherd has been limping and holding up her back leg this evening. Our vet isn't open until Monday, what van I give her for pain until then.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on May 4th, 2019

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry to hear that Eva injured her leg! Unfortunately, there are no safe human pain medications that can be given to dogs. Medications such as Advil, Aspirin or Tylenol can be fatally toxic to dogs, and should not be given. They can also interfere with medications that your veterinarian will want to prescribe when he/she sees Eva on Monday. The best thing you can do to help Eva in the meantime is restrict her activity. If she has a crate, I recommend keeping her in this during the day and night, except for taking her out on a leash to urinate/defecate outside 3-4 times per day. If you don't have a crate, keeping her restricted to one room in the house where she cannot run or jump on/off things will be the most helpful. If you feel that Eva is in too much pain - i.e. she is whining or crying constantly - she should be seen by an emergency veterinarian and you should not wait until Monday. I hope this is helpful!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 14th, 2020

    Poor Benny! No, you should not give him Tylenol. Human pain medications are not nearly as safe and effective as the medications your vet has that are formulated for dogs, and anything you give could inhibit your vet's ability to prescribe something better. I recommend keeping Benny quiet and rested, minimize stairs and jumping, and if he's still limping after 24 hours then have him seen by your vet.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 28th, 2019

    No, do NOT give her any human pain medications. Many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Just rest her for now. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to potty on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done.

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