Why is my dog limping much worse immediately after a vet X-ray?

Carson is adorable! Thanks for including a picture. The answer as to whether or not x-rays are recommended really depend on your veterinarian's examination. If they find something concerning on exam, then they may recommend taking x-rays. But I would definitely start with having them examine Carson to see what they can find on examination. As far as pain medications, there are a number of good pain medications, but they are all prescription. I am attaching a handout below with more information on pain medications for dogs. (It is discussing arthritis pain, but is a good source of information for pain medications in dogs). I would not recommend giving anything at home until your vet can examine Carson because it may interact with any pain medications that your veterinarian will want to give Carson. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951467 Good luck! I hope Carson feels better soon. Thanks for using PetCoach.

Poor Odin! I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

Since she's been lame for a week, an exam with your veterinarian would be recommended. X-rays to diagnose fractures may be indicated after a physical exam. There are very few OTC medications you can give a dog for pain at home. Most are toxic or easy to overdose. Do not medicate Diamond without the advice of your veterinarian.

I personally believe it is always necessary to do an x-ray. Unfortunately, they are expensive but they are the best way to determine what is causing the pain in his leg. X-rays can help to rule out fractures, dysplasia, or soft tissue injury. A cruciate ligament injury is also a possibility, so your veterinarian may want to perform an orthopedic test to see if there is any laxity in the knee. There is no guarantee the problem will heal with rest and prolonging an accurate diagnosis may just make the problem worse.

If the radiographs were not remarkable, the pain Hugo is experiencing is likely from soft tissue and / or nerve pain. True ligamentous or tendinous ruptures do not often occur in the forelimb in the dog, though it is possible. Advanced imaging or scoping would be needed to confirm a diagnosis. We tend to see these issues in the hind end most often particularly in larger breed dogs like GSDs. The best things you can do for Hugo right now are the following: -Most important thing: he needs to rest his leg; that means no going outside unless on a leash, and even with leash, only to do his business. Should limit use of the leg as much as possible over the next 5 to 7 days. This will be difficult with GSD puppy but it is needed. If your veterinarian did not discuss the possibility of using a small sedative over the course of the next week, you might bring it up should it become too difficult to keep Hugo down. -Give any prescribed medications from your veterinarian as directed. If you walked into my office, I would have prescribed an anti-inflammatory and some pain medication. Hopefully your vet did the same. If he did not and Hugo is still experiencing discomfort you should call and request meds. Hope this makes sense. Consult with me if you have further concerns.

Unfortunately I would suggest nothing else than complete rest and possibly cold packs applied for 10-15 minutes to decrease inflammation if present. A clinical examination and possibly further investigations would be required to determine more specifically the cause of it. Starve him for eight hours before vet’s check up in case x rays under sedation will be required. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to post more questions if needed either on the forum or by requesting a consultation.

Hi! Thanks for entrusting us with Chestnut's care today! This could be related to being under anesthesia in one position which can result in pain in patients with arthritis for example. I think other possibilities for lameness should be considered. Lameness can be a sign of a few things that range from a muscle sprain to even a fracture. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian so that this can be further assessed which will likely include radiographs. Treatment will be dependent on findings though at the very least pain control medications can be prescribed. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!