Pet owners in West Palm Beach, FL, should act immediately if they notice lameness or limping from their pets for any length of time. Lameness means that at least one leg is not moving normally. Lameness could also shift from one leg to another, depending on the cause. Your pet may have a serious illness or injury if it has lameness or limping. All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach, FL, is here to talk about some possible causes of lameness and limping in your pet.
Can Lyme Disease Result in Lameness?
Lameness is one of the potential symptoms of Lyme disease in pets. Your pet may also seem tired, eat less food, and have swollen joints or lymph nodes. Other health conditions could cause these symptoms, so contact your veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis.
What Else Causes Lameness or Limping?
Your pet has likely suffered an injury if it suddenly begins limping. Your pet might have a fracture, broken bone, sprain, spinal injury, dislocation, or a sharp object embedded in its paw. A limp could also develop gradually due to dysplasia, ligament disease, arthritis, or cancer. Some cases of lameness or limping can be resolved with rest, while others can persist for years.
Some pets with these symptoms may also suffer from nerve damage. Many different accidents and health problems can trigger limping, but dogs that participate in sports face a greater risk of developing a limp. It is important to let your dog rest and schedule a veterinary appointment if your dog suffers a limp while participating in a sport. Your pet’s reason for limping or lameness may be obvious or require expert diagnosis, depending on the circumstances.
How Does a Veterinarian Diagnose It?
You should turn to a veterinary professional near you when you are not sure why your pet is suffering from these symptoms. Your veterinarian can use blood tests, X-rays, biopsies, and other techniques to identify specific health problems. It may be enough to thoroughly examine your pet and ask you a few questions in some cases. The next step is to treat the diagnosed condition using prescription medicines or surgery.
Get Professional Treatment From Your Veterinarian in West Palm Beach, FL
Lameness or limping from your pet could signal serious health issues that need immediate action, so contact All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach, FL, immediately to get your pet the care it needs. Call us to schedule an appointment today at (561) 688-1154. We are here to help your pet live a long and healthy life.