From sudden lameness after a walk to slow-onset arthritis in older pets, we diagnose orthopaedic problems with proper examination, in-house imaging, and a long-term plan to keep your pet comfortable and active.
Lameness is one of the most common reasons we see dogs — and one of the most under-investigated. Pets are stoic; they often hide pain until it’s significant. A proper orthopaedic assessment finds problems early, when they’re easier (and cheaper) to manage well.
Common causes of lameness in pets
Osteoarthritis
The single most common cause of lameness in older pets — and one of the most under-recognised in middle-aged pets. Roughly 1 in 5 dogs over the age of one year have osteoarthritis, and most cats over 10 have detectable arthritic changes. Signs are often subtle: stiffness after rest, slowing on walks, reluctance to jump up, or a general “slowing down” that owners assume is just age. Early intervention dramatically improves quality of life.
Cruciate ligament disease
Rupture or partial tearing of the cranial cruciate ligament in the knee is one of the most common orthopaedic conditions in dogs — particularly Labradors, Rottweilers, Staffies and Springer Spaniels. It usually presents as sudden hindlimb lameness after exercise, sometimes with a clicking knee. Treatment is typically surgical (TPLO is the gold-standard procedure for medium-large dogs), with excellent long-term outcomes.
Hip & elbow dysplasia
Developmental abnormalities of the hip or elbow joints, common in larger breeds (Labradors, Retrievers, German Shepherds, Bulldogs). Signs typically appear in young dogs (5–18 months) as bunny-hopping, stiffness, or reluctance to exercise. Early diagnosis allows medical management and, in some cases, surgical correction.
Patellar luxation
The kneecap slipping out of position — very common in small breeds (Yorkies, Poms, French Bulldogs). The classic sign is a “skipping” gait where the dog briefly hops on three legs, then carries on normally. Severity ranges from mild (medical management) to severe (surgical correction).
Soft tissue injuries
Sprains, strains, muscle tears, and back injuries. Often caused by zoomies, jumping in and out of cars, slips on hard floors, or rough play. Most respond well to rest and anti-inflammatories, but some need imaging to rule out more serious injuries.
Fractures & trauma
Road traffic accidents, falls, fights, or stepping in a hole. Suspected fractures are urgent — bring your pet straight in.
Spinal disease
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is common in Dachshunds, Frenchies, Beagles and other long-backed or chondrodystrophic breeds. Signs include reluctance to jump, hunched back, weak hind legs, or sudden inability to walk. This is always urgent — the longer it goes untreated, the worse the outcome.
How to spot lameness early
Pets rarely cry out in pain unless something is acutely severe. Most signs are subtle behavioural shifts that build up gradually:
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When to bring your pet in promptly
- Sudden non-weight-bearing lameness (holding a leg up completely)
- Visible deformity or swelling of a limb
- Inability to stand, weakness in the back legs, or signs of paralysis
- A hunched back with reluctance to move
- Trauma — falls, road accidents, fights
- Severe pain when a limb or joint is gently handled
- Lameness that hasn’t improved with 24–48 hours of rest
How we diagnose orthopaedic problems
Lameness investigation starts with a thorough orthopaedic examination — watching your pet move, palpating each joint and muscle group, and assessing range of motion. Many causes can be identified in this examination alone. Where imaging is needed, we have on-site capability.
Orthopaedic examination
A systematic, hands-on assessment of every joint, muscle group, and the spine. Often the highest-value part of the diagnosis.
Digital X-rays
On-site digital radiography for joints, spine and bones. Up to 5 views included in the standard fee.
Joint ultrasound
For soft tissue injuries (tendons, ligaments) where X-rays don’t show the full picture.
Referral when needed
For advanced imaging (CT, MRI) or specialist surgery, we work with trusted referral practices and stay involved in your pet’s care.
Treatment & long-term management
Orthopaedic care is rarely a single visit. The best outcomes come from a structured plan combining several approaches:
- Pain relief & anti-inflammatories — modern NSAIDs and adjunct medications keep pets comfortable with minimal side effects
- Joint supplements — glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s and newer products like Antinol have a real evidence base
- Weight management — the single most impactful thing you can do for an arthritic pet. Even 10% weight loss transforms mobility
- Controlled exercise & physiotherapy — structured, low-impact exercise often beats rest for chronic joint disease
- Surgical intervention — for cruciate disease, severe dysplasia, fractures, or selected luxations, surgery delivers excellent long-term outcomes
- Monoclonal antibody injections — new options like Librela (dogs) and Solensia (cats) offer monthly injectable pain relief with minimal side effects
Transparent pricing
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Standard Consultation (15 min) | £39 |
| Extended Consultation (full ortho exam) | £60 |
| X-rays (up to 5 views) | £400 |
| Joint ultrasound | POA |
| Surgical procedures | POA — full estimate provided |
Petplan direct claims supported. Companion Plan members receive consultations included plus 20% off medications.
Arthritis is for life. Spread the cost.
Pets with chronic joint disease need ongoing medication, regular check-ups and monitoring. Companion Plan members get free consultations plus 20% off medications — for an arthritic pet, that adds up fast.
Frequently asked questions
My dog is limping but seems happy — should I be worried?
Pets are very good at masking pain — a happy dog can still be in significant discomfort. If lameness has lasted more than 24–48 hours, even mild lameness, please book a consultation. Earlier diagnosis usually means simpler treatment.
How can I tell if my older pet has arthritis?
Stiffness on rising, slowing on walks, reluctance to jump or use stairs, or just “slowing down” are all signs. Many owners attribute these to old age — but old age isn’t a diagnosis. Modern arthritis treatment can transform an older pet’s comfort and activity.
Is rest enough, or does my pet need treatment?
For minor strains, 48 hours of rest may be sufficient. For anything that’s persistent, recurring or worsening, a proper examination is worth the £39 — better than a long course of self-treatment that masks something more serious.
Are joint supplements actually worth it?
For mild to moderate arthritis, modern joint supplements (particularly omega-3s and Antinol) have a reasonable evidence base. They’re not a substitute for veterinary care in moderate-severe disease, but they’re a valuable part of the toolkit. We’ll recommend specific products rather than guess.
Will my dog need surgery?
Most lameness cases don’t need surgery. For those that do (cruciate ruptures, severe dysplasia, fractures, some luxations), surgery typically delivers excellent long-term results — far better than long-term medical management alone.
What about cats with stiffness?
Feline arthritis is hugely under-diagnosed. Most cats over 10 have arthritic changes, but they show it through subtle behavioural changes — reduced jumping, hiding, grooming changes — rather than obvious limping. We’ll happily talk through whether your cat could benefit from assessment.
Get to the bottom of your pet’s lameness
Independent veterinary care. On-site imaging. Surgery, when needed, by a vet who knows your pet.