Distinguish Dog Fracture and dislocation in Dogs
How can I treat my dog? A fracture is a clear fracture of a bone, while a dislocation means an articulation injury, when one of the bones that are part of it dislocates. In case of fracture there will be no limitations for movement but probably an audible discordant sound will come with it (crackling). Avoid unnecessary handling that will be painful for the dog. On the contrary, a dislocation impedes free movement. Swelling limits only to the articulation zone, and the bone does not penetrate skin. First aids are similar in both cases. Have in mind the dog is in pain, so try to control him. Take him into a small area, encouraging him to lay down, and taking weight of the affected part of his body. Leave the treatment in the hands of a veterinary. In some breeds, there is a congenital tendency to develop luxaciones patelares (kneepan). If the problem continues, maybe a surgical correction will be needed. In case of a fracture, the veterinarian can opt to fasten it immediately placing the leg in a plaster. The decision will depend on the location and type of fracture; when bones penetrate the skin, it is more serious than clean cracks.
