Signs That Your Pet’s Limp Requires Urgent Attention
If your pet is limping and shows sure signs, you should take them to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Otherwise, waiting until the next business day for veterinary care is usually okay.
Signs of lameness in pets that require emergency care
If you notice any of these signs in your pet with four legs, it is recommended that you take them to the emergency room:
- Extreme lethargy
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Excessive swelling
- Dragging a limb
- Not bearing weight on a limb
- Excessive vocalization
- Abrupt worsening of a limp
Suppose your pet is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea in addition to having a minor limp. In that case, it may be necessary to seek emergency treatment for the underlying issue rather than just the limp.
Causes of lameness in pets that need emergency treatment
There are various reasons why pets may become lame, and certain causes require immediate treatment. Although a muscle sprain or strain is worrying, it is not necessary to immediately go to an emergency hospital. However, urgent care is necessary for some conditions.
- A fractured limb
- Paresis or paralysis of one or more limbs
- A venomous insect or snake bite
- A car accident
- A deep or large wound that will not stop bleeding
- A dog fight
Although some situations may seem minor, your pet could develop internal injuries that need treatment. For instance, if your pet has some road rash on their legs and a slight limp, a thorough examination may reveal damage to their liver, spleen, kidneys, or bladder. Such injuries might require intensive hospitalization and care.
It’s critical to seek emergency care as soon as possible if another animal has bitten your pet. Puncture marks may seem small, but they can quickly become infected. Furthermore, if your pet has been grabbed and shaken, it can cause significant damage to underlying tissue that may lead to serious complications.
It can be challenging to know if your pet, who now only has three legs, requires urgent medical attention. We suggest contacting our team to describe your pet’s situation, and we can guide you on whether emergency care is necessary.