Senior Golden Retriever Limping After Jump: What Should I Do?
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Small Animal Veterinarian
Dr. Karyn is a small animal veterinarian originally from Australia, now based in the UK. She holds degrees in Veterinary Science (2010) and Zoology. When not helping pets, she tends to her 5 cats, 5 dogs, and garden!
The Question
Daisy has been limping on her front right leg for the past three days after she jumped off a dock into the lake during our hike. It seems worse in the morning when she first gets up. Should I bring her in for an X-ray to check for a sprain or fracture?
Quick Info about Daisy
📹 Vet's Video Reply (scroll down to see text answer)
Hi Camille, With what you have told me, I think that a fracture is unlikely, but I can’t completely rule it out. You said there are no obvious external wounds, and that she can put weight on the leg, but she’s been uncomfortable on the leg for a few days now, so I think it’s time to get her checked out. You also mentioned that she’s on a joint supplement for some arthritis in her hips, and it is possible that she has arthritis forming in other joints too. The fact that the lameness is worst when she first gets up is what we tend to see with arthritic pain, but she really needs a physical examination to properly diagnose the problem. I would recommend that you make an appointment at your vet for an examination, and keep her quiet and rested in the meantime. Good luck and I hope Daisy is feeling back to her old self soon. If you want to discuss this further before booking Daisy in to see your vet, you can book a one-on-one consultation with a vet at Pangovet.com, but if she hasn't improved significantly, she needs a physical appointment ASAP. Dr Karyn