Dog injury

Question
While playing with other dogs one day my 50 lb young dog acquired a popping/cracking sound in the hip area. X-rays do not show anything should I still be concerned and try to find the source since it was not there before or let it go? He does bunny hop a bit at top speed and hold the leg in question up but only ever so slightly slightly when he does an all out run. What would you suggest?

Answer
Anna -

The best thing to do is to cage rest your dog.  Rest is always good for an injury - especially if he is painful after playing.  If he pup plays too rough, then there is the possibility that he might reinsure himself and that may delay healing.

Your veterinarian may have prescribed pain medication - if so, please give it to your pet.  Too often, we wait until the animal is painful and then give pain medications.  Antiinflammatory medication especially is best when given on a regular basis.  It is much easier to keep pain under control when pain meds are given regularly.

You should also follow any recommendations your veterinarian has prescribed regarding your pet's recovery.  

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM