My dog slipped, can't walk, and is dragging a hind leg. What to do?

Given your description, I would suspect intervertebral disc disease. It is similar to a slipped disc in humans, and can cause extreme pain and paralysis. These types of injuries are time sensitive, and prognosis goes down substantially after 48 hours. I am not trying to scare you, but you should bring him in right away to have him evaluated. Other possibilities include a torn ligament in his knee although the "dragging" does not fit. If he does have disc disease, paralysis and severe pain are good indications for surgery. If he has some function, and pain can be managed, then medical management with anti-inflammatories and pain medications is possible.

Hi, he might be experiencing an herniated disc. You would not necessarily see it on xrays. I would recommend to monitor urination and defecation and consider what’s the best way forward considering age, prognosis and welfare. Your vet should be able to advise you considering these three factors. Sending you positive thoughts.

This indicates that she has some degree of damage to the spinal nerves or peripheral nerves that control that leg. This can happen when they are hit hard by something, or (more likely) when they have a lower-spine disease. Old dogs tend to be more susceptible to various spinal cord problems that develop with age. These can be treatable though, so it's best to take Trixie for a vet evaluation sometime soon. The vet will be able to narrow-down the cause of this problem and provide pain relief (these conditions are usually very painful). For now, it's best to restrict her activity, as this can worsen her condition. Do not allow her to run, jump, or go on long walks until advised otherwise by your veterinarian. I hope that helps and Trixie gets better soon.

Oh no, it's not good that Duke's legs have suddenly given out. He could have been injured, suffering from severe hip dysplasia or degenerative joint disease, or he could have even have a spinal tumor causing disruption to the nerves in his back legs. He does need to see a vet for a lameness exam, possibly a neurological exam, and x-rays first thing in the morning to diagnose the cause of this sudden behavior. Once a cause is found, the vet can discuss treatment options. Tonight, rest him as much as possible.

This sign as you described it seems to be compatible with a neurological problem, most likely affecting the spinal cord at the thoracolumbar level. Intervertebral disc extrusion, spinal cord infarct and spinal cord tumor are all possible differentials and immediate check up and neurological examination should be performed as soon as possible to be able to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Further investigations like x rays may be immediately needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

This sounds like she may have injured her back which is very serious and needs immediate veterinary attention. If she isn’t using her rear legs this may be temporary or if the nerves have been damaged she could become permanently paralyzed. Please take her in the treatment right away. They will give medication for the pain and to reduce the inflammation around the nerves. Dogs can rupture a disc in their back and may need surgery to relieve the pressure so they can walk again. It’s best to get an exam to determine the cause of her pain and lack of walking in the rear legs. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Tootie.

Your dog may just be feeling worse after having to get out and about at the vet. Trips like these can be very stressful and hard on older dogs. Your vet probably also did an orthopedic exam, flexing and extending his joints, which could make him more sore. It is possible, although less likely, that your dog is dragging his legs because of spinal damage. If you pinch his toes and he can feel it then this is probably not the issue. Let you dog rest comfortably for now and continue giving the medication as prescribed. If he is not improving within about 24 hours you may want to consider going in for a recheck or asking your vet for additional pain medication. Best of luck. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.