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Are the following symptoms a sign of a muscle cramp, or something worse?

When I opened the patio door this morning to give my 4 year old beagle some breakfast, he started barking uncontrollably in pain for about 15 seconds straight. When he settled down, I saw his right hind leg still shaking. I'm hoping it was simply a Charley horse/muscle cramp?He's never done this before.


Asked by Member 900087 on Oct 12th 2009 Tagged cramps, muscle, spasm, charleyhorse, yelping, barking, random, pain in Emergencies & First Aid
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Dieta

I think an x-ray at the vet's is the first thing.
That way you can find out if it is his joints.
Then you can do some at home rubbing and stretching to help him.
the vet can give you some paperwork on stretching and massaging.
hope he feels better.


Dieta answered on 10/12/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Valentine

Make sure you check his feet/pads for thorns or insect stings,too.


Valentine answered on 10/12/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Jack

First, it's not usual for dogs who are in good health and as young as yours is to have muscle cramps in their legs. More often, there is a spasm or twinge in the spine, near the tail which radiates to a leg and can give the symptom of lameness or twitching in a leg or both hind legs. I'm not saying for sure this is what happened to your dog, but it's more common than a leg cramp, simply because of dog physiology.

I would definitely second taking him to the vet and make a note of how he handles himself between now and the office visit and make sure to give the vet any info, even if seems unlikely to be related. You just never know.

A good vet would be able to replicate the discomfort if not the full blown pain your dog has by placing safe pressure on the spine or tush area. Do NOT try this yourself. But this would be the first step before x-rays if the vet suspects this type of injury. Treatment would include muscle relaxers and rest.

I'd check for a sting or bite too!


Jack answered on 10/12/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Max

gently feel around his leg paw and hip if he yelps or shows any sign of pain bring him imeadiatly to your vet for an x ray if he seems fine just keep an eye on him and go easy on walks


Max answered on 10/15/09. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer