A good game of catch with your canine best friend is great exercise for both. It’s a good way to burn off some of that excess energy. Unfortunately, vigorous, prolonged play can have you both rushing to emergency pet care in Rockville MD.
Sprains, Strains and Torn Muscles
Soft tissue injuries are damage to the muscles, tendons and ligaments. Active dogs slip on ice or step in a hole while chasing a ball. Jumping or making fast turns and stops are tough on the dog’s body, inviting pulled muscles, stretched tendons and torn ligaments. Dogs suffer from soft tissue injuries as easily as their owners.
Limping is always a sign that something’s wrong. Check to see if there’s a pebble stuck between his toes or paw pads. If nothing is found, there could be a soft tissue injury. Many of these injuries are minor sprains best handled by rest. More serious injuries need a vet’s attention.
Bites, Cuts and Scrapes
Bite wounds should be seen by your vet in order to prevent infection. Cuts can be clean or dirty, depending on the source of the laceration. A cut made by another dog’s toenail in a fight would be a potential source of infection. Dogs hit by a car often suffer from numerous skin abrasions in addition to more serious injuries.
Knee Injuries
The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) stabilizes the knee and is similar to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in a human’s knee. When torn, the CCL causes the dog to limp or become lame. This is a painful injury. Some breeds are particularly susceptible to CCL injuries, including German Shepherds, Labs, Newfoundlands, Poodles and Golden Retrievers.
Regular exercise and preventing obesity with proper nutrition are important to help prevent CCLs. Depending upon the severity of the tear, surgery may be required.
Eye and Mouth Injuries
Dogs can’t protect their eyes or easily remove an object from their mouth. Dogs riding in vehicles can have dirt or a bug blown into their eyes. Injuries occur during fights with other animals. Allergies cause constant redness and tearing. Sticks splinter or become rammed into the back of the mouth. Licking a sharp can lid can cut the tongue. The possibilities are endless.
When you need emergency pet care in Rockville MD, the Groomery has a vet on call 24/7. Don’t take a chance with your best friend’s health. Browse our website to learn more.
