Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 4/28/2009

Question
My 13lb, 2 year old mini schnauzer was I injured this morning by getting
caught underfoot of my 80lb Bouvier. She is now avoiding putting any weight
on her rear left foot. She is otherwise not showing any signs of pain, and still
playful and happy. There is no swelling or heat, and there are no sensitive
areas on her leg or foot that I can find. She does not object to gentle
manipulation of the leg or toes. We are restricting activity to short on-leash
walks for elimination, and though she shows some slight improvement, the
limping still concerns me. The joints of the knee and ankle feel
Identicle to the right leg.
When does she need to go to the vet?
Is there anything else I should be doing?  

Answer
Cathy -

If your dog is not weight bearing on the leg, you should have have her seen by a veterinarian.   You are right to restrict activity; allowing her to run around will only exacerbate the injury.  

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM