dog paw injury; canine fracture;

Question
Today my lab/collie mix took a flying leap at a squirrel and managed to wedge his paw between the boards at the top of the wooden fence- his paw got pinched between the boards, and he dangled there howling till I ran over and supported his body and stuck my fist into the pinched spot to unwedge him. I put him down and coddled him for awhile, and he cheered up and ran away soon enough, but I thought he needed rest so I put him inside on the couch.  It's a few hours later and his paw is swollen, though he'll walk on it, but all he wants to do is sleep and not go outside with me.  I'm worried the paw is broken or sprained, but also don't want him to get injuries associated with casts.  It's evening and tomorrow's Sunday, so the vet is closed.  Any advice?  

Answer
Hi Kara, So sorry to hear about this injury.  The swelling is normal as long as it stays localized to the area that was injured.  Is there any way you can hold ICE or frozen peas  on his leg?

Most VETS would allow 1 baby asprin every 6-8 hrs for swelling and pain.  Give your VET a call and ask this would be ok for your dog.
Yes, I would get him in for Monday and have an x-ray done on the paw.
You want to make sure there is no " Hair Line " fracture.

Just keep him quiet until Monday.  Sounds like he is doing that already.  

Good Luck!
Marie Peppers LPN MA



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