When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care for a Limping Pet
In most cases, your pet’s lameness can be addressed during regular veterinary hours. However, there are certain circumstances, accompanied by limping, that require immediate attention at the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.
Signs of lameness in pets that warrant emergency care
If your beloved companion displays any of the following signs, it is crucial to head to the emergency room:
Dragging a limb Inability to bear weight on a limb Extreme lethargy Uncontrolled bleeding Excessive swelling Excessive vocalization Sudden worsening of the limp
If your pet experiences minor lameness along with concerning symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, they may require emergency treatment for the underlying cause, rather than solely focusing on the limp.
Causes of lameness in pets that necessitate emergency care
Pets can experience lameness due to various reasons, and some of these demand immediate medical attention. While muscle sprains or strains are worrisome, rushing to the nearest emergency hospital may not be necessary. However, certain conditions require urgent care, including:
Fractured limb Paresis or paralysis of one or more limbs Deep or large wounds that do not cease bleeding Bites from venomous insects or snakes Involvement in a car accident Injuries sustained from a dog fight
Some of these situations may not initially appear severe, but internal complications may develop, necessitating treatment. For instance, your pet might appear fine with only minor road rash and a slight limp after being hit by a car. However, a comprehensive examination could reveal damage to vital organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or bladder, requiring intensive hospitalization.
Another common scenario that warrants immediate attention is a pet that has been bitten by another animal. Puncture wounds may seem insignificant, but they can quickly lead to infection. Additionally, if a pet has been grabbed and shaken, significant damage to underlying tissues can occur, rapidly escalating into a serious problem.
Determining whether your four-legged friend, who has transitioned from walking on four legs to three, requires emergency care can be challenging. We encourage you to contact our team to discuss your pet’s condition, allowing us to provide advice on whether they need immediate treatment.