long haired chihuahua limping

Hi. We have a two year old Chihuahua. We live on a farm and let him out to go to the bathroom a few days ago. When he didn't come to our calling we set out looking for him only to find him laying in the grass. He would not get up or respond to our calling. After bringing him inside he was limping severely. We checked him for broken bones and he appeared OK. He gave no indication of pain while gently pressing his leg bones between our fingers all the way up to his shoulder. We extended his leg and returned it to his side but still no complaints. He does yelp loudly from time to time when trying to get around but the injury appears to be up by his shoulder. However, even with careful pressure applied to his ribs and shoulder area he gives no indication of pain. He has absolutely not control over the leg and will not pull it back when manually extended. He seems to have no control at all over the leg. Since it doesn't appear to be out of joint or broken what should we do. We thought he might start using it as a day or two has passed but instead he his limping and carrying it about in a very lifeless fashion. He will even drag his paw on its back as if he has no feeling in it. Can you suggest what might have happened and what to do about it. There were no signs of blood or saliva that might indicate a fight. Thanks.

[Jaybay]

I'm really worried that he's lost function in the leg.  It appears he has a very damaged nerve involved with whatever the initial injury was, or a possible spinal issue.  You really need to have a vet examine him.  If function can't be restored, the leg will have to be amputated.  I know that sounds extreme, but I've seen what happens to dogs when amputation is necessary and the owner refuses the surgery.  Eventually, there will be another injury to the leg because the dog can't feel it.  Infection sets in leading to sepsis (blood poisoning) and the dog dies a horrible death.  Dogs get along great on 3 legs, so if amputation is necessary, please don't hesitate to do it to save his life.

[krtrnrs]

I would suggest seeing your vet and having radiographs taken of the limb and the spine and/or a possible referral to a vet neurosurgeon for a MRI or CT scan.  Also see if there is a canine rehabilitator in your area.  In conjunction with other treatments (which may include surgery) you can see great success with rehab.  If treatment is sought quickly hopefully this won't result in an amputation, but as Jaybay stated dogs do very well on just three legs.  I hope everything turns out fine :)

[utahmomma]

How is he doing today?

[jeetfeet]

Well we took him to the vet and his suggestion was an injury that damaged or pinched the brachial nerve bundle near his shoulder/spine. He said it was typical for dogs/cats that may get a leg  caught or trapped. He prescribed anti-inflamatory meds for the next two months with hopes that tissue swelling might be the cause but indicated what other posters did also that it might result in an amputation. We are praying he gets back full function in his leg at this point. One interesting development is that after about two days of meds he has been able to lift up the leg from his shoulder and though his paw is still limp he has indicated a return of sensation to it by reacting to some pressure on it. Thanks for all the help -- we'll keep ya posted.

[chigirl29]

I'm happy to hear that your chihuahua is responding to meds.  I hope he makes a full recovery.

[utahmomma]

Sorry, I was at the vet's - twice - tonight with my Sr. dachshund.  I'm so happy that your chihuahua is doing better.  I hope he's out romping around again soon!

[jeetfeet]

Thanks for all your help. Gizmo is now posted in our profile image. He's sooooo cute. Just his paw is limp now and he is starting to get feeling back in it. He is also starting to run again and holds the paw flat out at times. Praise God - we're still praying for him. Thanks again.

[Amy_Nicole]

SO HAPPY to hear your guy is happy.

My Amy is being sore on her hind leg after a small tumble.

Very happy (happy) that your pup worked out - and calmed me when thinking about Amy and diagnosing her issue.

T.