My miniature Dachshund has something going on with her hind foot. At first I thought it was cuts or cracks or cysts caused by the salt/chemicals on snowy sidewalks. I cleared all apparent skin problems with a combination of udder balm and Califlora ointment and he skin around the pads and between the toes looks fine now.

The limping started 3 days ago and is, I believe from taking some bad steps in some heavy crusty snow. It is not improving and she yelps when touch the outer toe of the foot (right). She doesn't want to put the foot on the ground nor put weight on it, just rests it on the tip when she stands or eats. She moves about on 3 legs, holding the foot up parallel to her body. I can bend the knee and the heel of the same leg, but get protests when I touch around the toes. I am now keeping her rested as much as possible with just the quick outs to relieve herself. She herself is in very good spirits and is eating and drinking normally.

Should I be thinking this is a broken toe or a sprain? How should I treat either one of these. I use almost exclusively homeopathics and herbals. Should I strap the foot? Please advise.

Philippa Jordan

Philippa,

You should take her to the vet. She may have an infection or something else going on internally that you cannot see. If she is limping or holding her foot up it means she is an great deal of pain.

Stacey