Limping all of a sudden, no trauma

[Murphy123]

Hi,

Murphy was just diagnosed with panosteitis. Yesterday when I got home from work he came out of his crate limping on his front leg. Then this morning when he woke up it was a back one that he was limping on and he didn't even want to go for a walk. So I brought him to the vets and was told it is pano. They did a lyme test just to be sure and it was negative. He's on rimadyl and a joint complex now. Has anyone elses dog had this? The vet says he'll limp on and off and on different legs each time. And to just leave him sleep when he's having a bad day. It may last a few weeks or a few months but will probably be completely gone when he hits 18 months. This just sounds like a crazy disease to me. Just wondering if anyone has suggestions on how to help him get over it or if it's just a matter of time. If anyone's pet has had this what do I do about exercise? Does this mean no hikes or long walks till it's gone. He doesn't seem in pain (crying or yelping) from it but he looks real uncomfortable when he walks...

Thanks,
John

 

[Net45582]

I've not had experience with this. If the vet stated it should pass by 18 months it sounds like a physical developmental issue. Also if the vet said to let him sleep it off on a bad day,I would avoid long walks....but this is just my uneducated opinion. You may want to call the vet about daily excersize suggestions or limitations. Good luck and I hope it passes quickly.

 

[beasleymom]

Panosteitis is a bone disease which affects the long bones in dogs who are growing/developing - typically in younger pups but can onset a little later on (like at 12 months of age). Tends to resolve itself anywhere from 12-18 months from onset but every dog is different. It will typically affect each limb at a different time although it can affect multiple limbs at the same time, too. Just kinda depends. This disease DOES resolve itself in time but it can be a painful road for your pup. I'd suggest working with your vet or even a rehabilitation therapist to discuss options for making sure that Murphy is getting appropriate exercise without it being too much for him and ways to keep his pain at a minimum. Poor baby... take care that Murphy is getting the best nutrition possible even though his appetite will fluctuate. He may not always be hungry but keep the feeding schedule (if you don't free feed) regular and stay the course. It's important that whatever he eats will promote healthy bone growth. Vets don't always know a whole lot about nutrition so if you need to do any research about what you should be feeding, there is a TON of information here on BW.

Sending lots of (((((healing vibes))))) your way...and hopefully Murphy will grow out of this sooner than 18 months!!!

 

[DannyB]

"Lameness usually begins between 5-10 months of age. The onset of lamenss is usually acute. Classically the disorder affects more than one limb or bone, causing the lameness to wax and wane and shift from one limb to another. Lethargy and anorexia may accompany the lameness in some animals; these animals are often quite painful (lame)."

There isn't anything you can do to speed resolution , unfortunately. Keep him on pain meds as needed to keep him comfortable. I wouldn't take him on long walks if he's limping.