When your dog walks, runs or plays like normal, you know they are most likely in good spirits and are not in any broken-bone pain. He or she seems generally well, and doesn’t walk with a limp. Then, something happens unexpectedly, and you fear they’ve fractured or broken a bone. A fractured paw or a break can happen at any age, so it’s important to know what to do if this ever happens to your four-legged friend.
Here, we discuss the signs, antidotes, temporary measures, basic veterinary procedures of fractures and breaks, and the recovery times of strains and sprains. However, if you have an emergency with a dog’s broken bone, please contact Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists at (918) 299-4900 or emergency@okvets.com.
Our emergency hospital is fully-staffed, all day, every day. If you have an emergency with your dog, please call or come to the hospital immediately.
When Dogs Have Broken Bones
Unexpected accidents happen, causing major discomfort and mobility difficulties. Breaks or fractures can occur if your dog is any of the following:
Many breaks and open, or complete, fractures can be seen externally as they protrude through the skin. This also causes a lot of blood to appear, so this should alert you they probably have a broken bone.
Other breaks and incomplete fractures aren’t visible because they are fractured internally — beneath the skin. Your dog most likely has a internal broken bone if they have a swollen area or are doing any of the following:
It is important to remember, a dog can go into shock after a break, sprain or fracture. Such symptoms can involve heavy breathing, colorless gums, thirstiness, nausea or even vomiting, bruised or swollen joints, weakness, or if the dog has fainted.
Conversely, dogs often hide pain as a part of their survival instincts, so it is important not to dismiss any abnormality in the way they walk or behave.
Oftentimes, when a dog is in pain, he or she might bite, as an instinctual reaction. Muzzle them to prevent this. If your dog is bleeding, carefully wrap the injured area with a clean cloth, towel or shirt. Then, apply pressure to stop the bleeding.
If you think your dog may have a broken bone, follow these steps:
Additionally, take these precautions:
Attempting any procedures at home could increase severity and further injure your dog. If your dog has a fractured paw or any other broken bone:
Furthermore, it’s best to wait for the veterinarian, as they are the expert at knowing how to clean injuries, which ointments are appropriate along with how and when to apply them.
Under standard urgent circumstances, the emergency care physician may do any of the following:
It can be disturbing to know your dog is in pain. Afterall, they are your pet, companion or support. If your dog sustains a broken bone, you now know the primary steps to take.
Following the above procedures sets you and your dog up for a safe environment. It also enables you to confidently provide necessary basic care until you arrive at the animal hospital where your veterinarian can quickly diagnose and further care for your injured dog — thus getting them on the road to recovery.
How do I know if my dog has broken a bone?
If your dog’s bone(s) sticks out through their skin (often accompanied by a lot of blood), refuses to walk or put pressure on their paw(s) or leg(s), you’ll know they may potentially have a broken bone. Unseen breaks can otherwise be noted if they yelp, whimper or whine when touched on a swollen area you think might be broken.
What is the recovery time for a dog’s sprained leg?
A dog’s strained or sprained leg or ankle will generally heal in about six weeks.
Will my dog’s broken bone heal by itself?
Untreated bones will heal, but they will set malaligned, causing sustained instability, a worsened fracture site, longer pain, and additional suffering.
