Dog Sprains: Care for your Pet

Dog sprains just like human sprains are injuries to the ligaments. However, one difference is that dogs are often diagnosed with chronic sprains. This means that the pain and swelling of the area is lengthy and persistent. Having the animal rest the area can be quite difficult because animals do not sit still for long periods of time and cannot just rest and elevate the affected area. The most common places for dog sprains is the ankle. It often occurs during games with the family or perhaps at the dog park wrestling with other animals. The next most common reason for sprains is awkwardly landing jumps and running on hard pavement and surfaces. Acute sprains often results in swelling, bruising, and limping. Of course, the more active the dog and the more rowdy the dog, the more likely they are to obtain a sprain injury. Dog sprains can be diagnosed and treated quite easily.

One of the easiest ways to treat dog sprains is to use applications of cold water and vinegar. There is also a therapy that involves a paste of lime and cow-dung. These are both natural remedies for dog sprains and of course it is up to the owner and what they are comfortable with when treating a sprain. The owner will know when the dog needs to be taken to the vet because they refuse to place any weight on the leg and are refusing to move around as they usually do. It is essential to make sure that the injury is not worse than a sprain, like a broken bone, so the vet will probably run some x-rays. Just like with humans, the best way to help reduce swelling is to ice the injured area. This can be difficult with an energetic dog, but if the dog is injured and acting a bit more lethargic than usual, it may be easier to ice the wound for a while. The ice can be even be wrapped with a tensor and taped unless the dog is prone to chewing. Most people will care for their dogs as much as they would care for their children, so the proper treatment of a sprain is important. Of course the vet will direct the owner in the right direction for the care of the injury. Owners love their animals and it pains them to see their dogs in pain, so for the better health of the dog and emotional health of the owner, sprains should be looked after quickly and responsibly. Dogs can develop arthritis from joint injuries and this can eventually limit their movement and activity level. So, sprains should be taken seriously.