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Dog Won't Put Weight on a Back Paw After Chasing a Rabbit

Reader Question
My dog was chasing a rabbit and I think she sprained her back right paw. She will bear no weight on it however I have checked her paw - no swelling, and she lets me handle it. She is eating and sleeps on the leg, it does not seems to bother her however she will not put weight on it. Does that sound like a sprain? What can I do for her? I literally do not have any funds for a vet.

Thank you so much.


Answer from Our Team

A dog who won't bear any weight on a leg, even without swelling or obvious pain when handled, may have more than a sprain. Torn knee ligaments, toe injuries and other problems can look like this, and a leg that isn't used at all should be checked by a vet.

In the meantime, keep her strictly rested with short leash walks only, check carefully between her toes and pads for cuts, thorns or a grass seed, and don't give any human pain medicines, as they can be dangerous. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you. If she starts using the leg again within a day or two and steadily improves, a mild sprain is more likely, but if not, please get her examined.

See dog paw injuries and dog sprains and strains.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.

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