Hello all. Just joined the site in the hope of getting some help & advice. Our 5 yr old black Lab, Marley, developed a limp a few months ago. After a few visits to the vet and some x-rays we still don't have a diagnosis. There seems to be no signs of arthritis or hip displacement. He's had about 6-7 hydrotherapy sessions, all on a treadmill, but there seems to be no improvement. When out for a walk, off lead, he doesn't run around as much and will often, walk behind me, which he didn't do before. Has anyone else had similar problems? I'm going to try and speak with the vet on Tuesday and thinking of stopping the hydrotherapy, but I might defer that decision until he's had a couple of sessions in the pool!?!
Welcome to the forum Which leg(s) does he seem to be limping on? I'm assuming a hind leg as you mentioned hip X-rays. Hind limb lameness can be tricky - it can be hard to pinpoint a cause. A dog physiotherapist can be worth consulting for help with a movement issue. They can help to identify where the problem is originating from. It's important to find someone with qualifications in physiotherapy (preferably postgraduate). Maybe you could chat to your vet about a referral or do some research to see who is around in your area.
I found a really good dog physio who helped my dog. He has a very good reputation locally and he helped resolve some movement problems my dog had. it took a lot of work but it helped my dog have a very normal happy life best thing I ever did for my dog.
Hi It's his rear right leg. Not sure if it's just his right or a bit of both. Thanks for the advice re the physio, I'll see if I can find a local one.
It might be worth seeing a physio / massage therapist (just make sure they are qualified and insured) Harley has massage therapy every 6 weeks as we had a similar issue. She kept limping and being really stiff, so we had X-Ray's done with no diagnosis like yours. Harley does agility so I was keen to make sure she was fully fit before continuing. Our massage therapist specialises in working dogs (agility, gun dogs etc) and she found Harley had a lot of really tense spots around her hind legs and lower spine. Massage has really helped. We started having it weekly, then fortnightly, then monthly and are just up to 6 weeks apart. It is expensive, but in my opinion worth it as Harley no longer limps and is no longer in pain.
I would be inclined to get a referral to an orthopaedic vet to get to the bottom of the problem Maybe if nothing is obvious on an an Xray, a more detailed view is necessary, such as an MRI.
I agree re seeing orthopedic vet. Our boy was in a lot of pain. Specialist orthopedic vet physically examined him and correctly diagnosed him - slipped disc at L7-S1. Subsequent MRI confirmed this. Our regular vet was not able to make the correct diagnosis. We were recommended laser therapy targeted at the site, which apparently causes tense muscles to relax and allow increased blood circulation to enable healing. Also very restricted wild movements - no jumping or twisting but was allowed to run on firm surfaces - the most important in our dog's case. 1.5 years on and he has made an excellent recovery (not perfect, but appears pain free). Best of luck with your boy. I highly recommend you see a specialist orthopedic vet for a proper diagnosis.
