Things You'll Need
- Veterinary-prescribed medication
Instructions
Take the dog to a vet. Only a vet can diagnose the cause of your dog's lameness and recommend appropriate treatment or medication. Acute lameness that occurs over a period of a few hours or days is typically the result of an injury, such as a cut paw, torn tendon or sprain. Diseases such as Lyme disease and degenerative joint conditions cause lameness over a period of several months or weeks.
Administer recommended medications or supplements. Some diseases require antibiotics or anti-inflammation medication while others heal with simple rest. Age-related lameness benefits from joint supplements. Speak with your vet before administering any type of medication or supplement.
Make your dog's living space comfortable. For example, an elevated dog bed would not be an appropriate resting place for a lame dog. Dogs with stiff or injured joints are particularly sensitive to hard surfaces, so ease your furry friend's discomfort by purchasing a high-quality dog bed or, at the very least, several soft blankets.
Follow the vets follow-up care recommendations meticulously. Certain injuries require rest, physical therapy or modified exercises. Your dog might love playing fetch but as a responsible owner you must limit dangerous or aggravating activity until the vet gives permission.
Seek followup care until you and your vet resolve the cause of your dog's lameness. Certain diseases or afflictions improve or worsen over time. Report any changes in your dog's condition to the vet immediately rather than waiting for more serious symptoms to arise.