Hi. My 5 year old gsp has over the past 3 weeks had an unusual gait/limp when starting out on her walks. I reluctantly took her to the orthopaedic vet. He well examined her and concluded she had a sore swollen toe and possible muscle pull. She has been given Rimadyl 1 tablet per day for 10 days. My question is if anyone has any idea as to when this anti inflammatory will start to work? Thanks.

Usually within 24 hours but it will depend on the severity of the injury as to if u can notice immediately and how much the dog shows pain . I guess she is on rest or lead walks only

Yes she is on lead walks only . But it’s difficult trying to keep a gsp down. She doesn’t appear to be showing any sign of pain and is always raring to go. Next step if by the end of the 10 days treatment if she is showing no sign of improvement then it’s xrays. Thank you for your reply.

Yes they work pretty quickly.  You should see continuing improvement over the next few days.  Really important to keep them rested though, short toilet walks and definitely no stairs, jumping off stuff.  Hope she recovers soon.

Thank you. She is on her third tablet today. There is a slight improvement. Hopefully all will be well soon and she’ll be able to her old manic self again. I say old but she was 5 yesterday!

They do have a cumulative effect, meaning that the effect builds up over days rather than being maximum effect after just one tablet....

Thank you for your reply. I have rested her for 2 days and the limp /gait seems to be improving. 5 Rimadyl tablets have been taken. 5 more to go. Hopefully she’ll be back to normal soon until the next time!