You can't tell if he banged his knee, stepped on something sharp, or pulled a muscle somewhere. But whatever happened, your pet is limping around the house. Lameness is often caused by nothing worse than a sore paw or strained muscle, which will often improve on its own within a few days. To get a leg moving again and keep your pet comfortable in the meantime, here are a few tips.
Instructions
GO FEET FIRST
STAKE A LEG
PUT ON A COLD PACK
SWTICH TO HEAT
If your animal is lame, a paw may be inured. Look for a cut food pad, broken toenails, a thorn or glass or other object stuck in the pad. There might even be bubble gum stuck between his toes.
If you suspect his leg is fractured, it's a good idea to get it immobilized before going to see the vet. To make an emergency splint, roll a section of newspaper into a tube and cut it so it's the same length as your pet's leg. Then slip it over the inured leg, using tape to hold is snug.
If you suspect your pet is limping because he's recently strained a muscle, applying a cold pack to the area can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. If you don't already have a cold pack in the freezer, you can make your own by using ice (or even a bag of frozen vegetables) wrapped inside a small towel. You should keep it on for five to ten minutes, four times a day. If your pet is still limping after two days and the area is sore to the touch, you should take him to the vet for a checkup.
Putting heat on a sore leg can also be very soothing. But don't use heating pads, because they can burn your pet. Instead, heat a gel pack (available at pharmacies) in the microwave until it's warm. Then wrap it in a towel and place it on your pet's sore leg. You can also use a warm water inside a rubber glove.