Should I Take My Shih Tzu Back to the Vet Due to His Twitching & Dragging Leg?

Dear VetBabble,

I have a 2-year-old Shih Tzu, and I recently took him to the pet ER because he was dragging his right back leg. He was given some medication, but it seems to be making the situation worse; now he’s twitching. I’m concerned that he might be having a reaction to the medications or that they’re not helping at all and his pain level is getting worse. Should I take him back to the veterinarian for reevaluation?

Understanding Limping and Twitching in Dogs

It’s quite concerning when our pets experience issues such as limping or twitching, and it can be difficult to understand what is happening to them. You’re right to be concerned about your Shih Tzu and seek immediate veterinary help. There could be several possible reasons for these signs, and it is crucial to identify the underlying problem to provide the best care to your pet. We’re here to help you explore these potential causes and advise you on the next steps to take. Let’s break down the issue into three sections: causes of limping, causes of twitching, and seeking further veterinary assistance.

Causes of Limping in Dogs

Limping in dogs can have various causes, ranging from minor injuries to more severe conditions. Some causes include cuts, sprains, broken bones, infections, inflammation, and degenerative joint disorders like arthritis. To better understand the specific issue your Shih Tzu is experiencing, it’s essential to visit your regular veterinarian and provide them with all the necessary information. In the meantime, you can check out our article on Why Is My Dog Limping? When to Worry and What to Do for more information on the possible reasons behind your dog’s limping.

Causes of Twitching in Dogs

Twitching in dogs can also have various causes. In some cases, it may be a side effect or reaction to the medication your pet is receiving. It’s essential to monitor your dog closely and report any changes in their condition to your veterinarian. However, aside from side effects, there are other causes for twitching in dogs, such as muscle spasms, seizures, and even neurological disorders. You can learn more about seizures and related conditions in our article on Seizures in Dogs. To determine the cause of your dog’s twitching, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian and discuss the symptoms and circumstances surrounding the twitching.

Seeking Further Veterinary Assistance

Given your concern about your Shih Tzu’s worsening condition and the possibility that he might be experiencing a reaction to the medication or that the problem is not improving, it’s essential to take him back to your veterinarian for reevaluation. They can reassess his situation, adjust medications or treatments, and explore alternative options if necessary. Don’t hesitate to seek their advice and clarify any concerns you might have.

Moreover, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with common health issues that might affect your pet. If you’re concerned about arthritis or other degenerative joint disorders, you can learn more about Arthritis in Dogs and Arthritis in Cats in our articles to help you better understand and manage these conditions.

In conclusion, your veterinarian is always the best source of advice for your pet’s health and well-being, especially when it comes to diagnosing and treating problems such as limping and twitching. Bringing your pet in for a reevaluation is a responsible and wise decision, ensuring that they receive the best care and recover quickly from their ailment.