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My dog is limping. Can I give her aspirin for a sprain before vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 5 years and 5 months old | 70 lbs

Can my dog have aspirin for a possibly sprained ankle until I can take her to the vet? We iced it and she's still limping.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 24th, 2017

Poor Wednesday! Unfortunately, I am unable to prescribe any medication without examining Wednesday myself. I do not recommend giving her aspirin, as it may have some unwanted side effects in dogs such as damage to the kidneys, gastric ulcers, and bleeding issues when given in high doses. She should definitely be seen by a vet as soon as possible, especially because she is limping. Your vet can take x-rays to see where the trauma is, and perform blood work to make sure that Wednesday's organs are functioning properly to handle any pain medication, as well as place a cast or splint if necessary. You should try to keep her as calm and quiet, with as little activity as possible until she is examined by a vet. Good luck and I hope Wednesday feels better soon!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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