Broken bones and dislocated joints are painful injuries that need prompt care. They're often caused by falls, car accidents, rough play or getting a leg caught, and they can happen to pets of any age or size.
Treatment depends on the type and location of the injury. Some fractures can be managed with a splint or cast, while others need surgery to realign and stabilize the bone or joint so it can heal properly.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Fracture or Dislocation
Pets in pain may hide, cry out or act differently than usual. Watch for:
- Sudden limping or not putting weight on a leg
- A leg that looks bent, twisted or out of place
- Swelling, bruising or a wound over the injury
- Crying out or flinching when touched
- Reluctance to move, lie down or get up
If your pet has been hit by a car or had a bad fall, keep them as still as possible and call us right away or go to the nearest emergency hospital. Some injuries aren't visible from the outside.
Diagnosis, Treatment and Recovery
Your vet will start by making sure your pet is stable and comfortable, then examine the injury and take X-rays to see exactly what's happened. From there, they'll explain the treatment options, which may include a splint, putting a dislocated joint back in place or surgery.
Healing usually takes several weeks. Your pet will need restricted activity, pain medication and recheck visits, often with follow-up X-rays to make sure the bone or joint is healing well.
Questions about Fractures & Dislocations?
Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.
Fractures & Dislocations: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pet's leg is broken?
How should I move my injured pet?
How long does it take for a fracture to heal?
Can a dislocated joint go back in place without surgery?
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