Changes that are easy to miss
- Getting up more slowly or avoiding stairs and slippery floors.
- Changing position often, sleeping poorly or seeking isolation.
- Avoiding play, touch to one area or having the harness put on.
- Changes in appetite, facial expression, posture or breathing rate.
Collect useful facts before the appointment
Record a short video of normal movement from the side and behind, and note when the change began and what makes it worse. Do not make the dog repeat a painful movement for the video. For intermittent signs, a home recording can be more useful than a verbal description.
Do not give human pain medicines
Ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen and other human medicines can be dangerous for animals. Do not reuse an old veterinary prescription without confirmation: the cause, weight and safe plan may have changed.
When care is urgent
- Sudden inability to stand or use a limb.
- Severe pain, crying, a firm swollen abdomen or collapse.
- Pain with laboured breathing, pale or blue gums.
Sources and useful links
This material is adapted for owners. Follow the links to check the original sources.
