Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 3: Apply first aid
• Part 2 of 3: Getting veterinary treatment
• Part 3 of 3: Taking care of your dog and its injury
• Warnings

Dogs love to play and exercise, but sometimes that can lead to sprains that need to be treated. While a sprain is a fairly common injury for a dog, it can restrict movement and cause a lot of pain. By learning how to treat your dog's sprain, you can limit suffering from this injury.

To step

Part 1 of 3: Apply first aid

1. Recognize the signs of a sprain. Before applying first aid to your dog, you should be able to spot the signs of a sprain. They are most common in the wrists and knees. This can help you determine if your dog needs to be taken to the vet and if there is another problem. Signs of a sprain in a dog include:
   • Limping
   • Lameness or inability to walk
   • Swelling
   • Pain or tenderness
   • Limb malformation (not usually present with a sprain, but not uncommon with fractures and dislocations)
2. Limit your dog's movement. As soon as you notice that your dog is in pain, do what you can to keep your dog from moving too much. If your dog continues to run and play, the injury can worsen.
   • If your dog has a crate, you may need to confine him in there for a while. If your dog doesn't have a crate, you can put him on a leash to keep him from moving too much.
3. Examine your dog carefully. No matter how gentle your dog is, if he is hurt he can bite or hurt you. Animals in pain are scared and can be dangerous.
   • Keep your face away from your dog's mouth and try not to hug him.
   • Conduct the study slowly and carefully. Reassure your dog in a low voice and stop if he gets agitated.
4. Call your vet. Once you have been able to examine your pet, call the vet to make an appointment. Explain the situation and get an appointment as soon as possible. This also notifies them that you are coming.
   • Call an emergency clinic if you cannot reach the normal vet.
   • Tell the vet about your dog's symptoms and ask any questions you may have, including the best way to transport your dog.
5. Take your dog to the vet. The only effective way to treat your dog's sprain is to take him to the vet. Once you have examined your dog and let your vet know you are coming, take it to the vet for treatment.
   • Keep your dog a travel crate, basket or enclosed area during transport. This will minimize the risk of your dog injuring itself further.

Part 2 of 3: Getting veterinary treatment

1. See your dog's vet. The vet can diagnose the sprain and create a treatment plan to help your dog recover. Remember that a visit to the vet is the only way to make sure your dog has a sprain and that he is getting the right treatment.
   • Tell the vet your dog's symptoms, how the injury occurred, and your dog's behavior since the injury. For example, you could say, “He is limping and I'm not sure when the injury occurred. He seems to be putting more weight on the right side and is not as excited to go for a walk as usual. ”
   • If possible, take a copy of your dog's medical records to the vet, although the vet should have these too.
   • Answer any questions your vet asks.
2. Have the vet take an examination and run tests. Your doctor will conduct his own research and may recommend further testing. The exam and tests can help the vet find out exactly where the problem is and work out the best treatment plan.
   • The vet can look at your dog from head to toe and touch or push points that look swollen, painful, hot, or abnormal.
   • The vet may ask your dog to walk, sit, and lie down.
   • The vet may order an X-ray or other scan, such as an MRI or CT.
3. Ask about treatment options. Once the vet has examined and diagnosed your dog, he can suggest different treatments depending on the severity of the injury. Follow the instructions your vet gives you regarding treatment. Make sure to always give any prescribed medication. The vet may suggest the following treatments:
   • Your dog an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) against the pain
   • Use ice or heat compresses
   • Encourage your dog to rest and take it slowly
   • Massage the injured area
4. Consider physical therapy. Your dog may need physical therapy after the sprain to improve mobility and aid recovery. Take him to a certified animal physiotherapist and do the recommended exercises at home as well.
   • The number of sessions your dog will need will depend on the severity of the injury.
   • Sessions usually last between 30 minutes and 1 hour and should be painless.
   • Most patients are given “homework”. For example, your dog's therapist may suggest putting your dog on a training ball and gently rocking it forward to increase his range of motion.

Part 3 of 3: Taking care of your dog and its injury

1. Let your dog rest. Give your dog a chance to rest if injured. This will aid recovery and reduce pain and discomfort.
   • Walk your dog on a leash for 2 to 4 weeks after the injury or as long as the vet recommends.
   • Watch your dog's behavior. If he seems tired, slowly walk home or lift him up.
2. Cool the injury. Apply an ice pack to your dog's injury if it is swollen or appears to be causing pain. The ice can reduce inflammation and pain and help the limb heal.
   • Use the ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
   • Wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect your dog's skin from the cold.
   • Examine the house for white or rough spots, which may indicate that your compress is too cold.
3. Give pain relief. Your dog may be experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort. Discuss with the vet whether you can give him widely available medication. You may be able to give a pain reliever to reduce the pain and inflammation.
   • Make sure you know how much your dog weighs and that you have discussed the correct dose with the vet.
   • Ask the vet to prescribe something stronger if your dog seems to be in a lot of pain.
4. Walk slowly. If you've gotten vet approval, take your dog on slow walks. Make sure to keep him on a leash so you can keep an eye on and protect him.
   • Consider swimming or walking your dog on a treadmill in the water. This can promote recovery and give him some exercise.
   • Avoid challenging activities, such as long walks and running.
   • Stay out of the park while your dog recovers.

Warnings

• Not taking your dog to the vet can make the injury worse.