Jack Russell Hind Right Leg Issue

by Amber Garner
(Ranger, AR)

My 10 year old Jack Russell Terrier woke up this morning and seems as if she can’t put much weight on her hind right leg. I don’t see any swelling. What kind of meds can I give her for pain until we can see a vet? The pics I’m sending is the first one with her leg/hip kind of spread out and not under her while sitting vs her left leg which is under her.

Editor Suggestion

Hi Amber,

I am not a Vet, but can offer some general suggestions. Some over-the-counter medications are sometimes used to manage pain in dogs, like Buffered Aspirin (NOT regular Aspirin).

A common guideline for buffered aspirin dosage in dogs is approximately 5-10 mg per pound (10-20 mg per kg) of body weight, given every 12 hours. However, this dosage may vary depending on your dog's size, age, and health status, so it's important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dose for your dog.

Aspirin can cause gastrointestinal issues and other side effects in dogs, especially if given for an extended period. A veterinarian may recommend alternative medications specifically designed for dogs, such as carprofen or meloxicam, to minimize these risks.

Until you're able to see a vet, consider these general suggestions:

Limit movement: Encourage your dog to rest and avoid excessive activity that could worsen the issue.

Apply ice: If there's an injury, applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 10-15 minutes several times a day may help reduce inflammation and pain.

Monitor: Keep an eye on your dog for any changes in behavior or worsening of symptoms.

Best,

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Jack Russell Terrier Pictures