Assessing gait, pain response, and range of motion.
For Pets When Every Second Counts
My Pet Is Limping — Is This an Emergency?
A limping pet is always worth taking seriously. Whether it came on suddenly after a fall or appeared out of nowhere, limping can signal anything from a minor soft tissue strain to a fracture, ligament tear, or nerve injury — many of which get significantly worse without prompt treatment. If your pet is refusing to bear weight, crying in pain, or was involved in any kind of trauma, call Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital at (423) 581-9492 or come directly to our hospital in New Market, TN. We’re open 24/7 and can evaluate your pet the same day.
Same-day evaluation for limping and lameness emergencies
On-site X-rays to identify fractures and joint damage fast
Immediate pain management on arrival
Clear answers on what your pet needs — and what comes next
Immediate Pain Relief
IV and injectable pain medications to stabilize your pet from the moment they arrive.
On-Site Imaging
Digital X-rays to identify fractures, dislocations, and joint damage without delay.
Lameness & Trauma Team
Emergency professionals experienced in diagnosing and treating the full range of limping and orthopaedic injuries.
When Should a Limping Pet Be Seen Right Away?
Not every limp is a critical emergency, but some are — and the signs aren’t always obvious. Come in immediately if your pet cannot bear any weight on a limb, has a visibly deformed or swollen leg, is in obvious distress, or was involved in any trauma including being struck by a vehicle, jumping from height, or a bad fall.
Even mild limping that appeared suddenly and without explanation deserves a same-day evaluation. Hairline fractures, CCL ligament tears, and joint injuries may allow some weight bearing initially but worsen quickly without treatment. When in doubt, call us at (423) 581-9492 — a quick conversation with our team can help you decide whether to come in right away or monitor at home.
Get Help Now
Emergency Lameness Care You Can Trust
If your pet is limping and you’re not sure what to do, call us. Our team can walk you through what to look for and will be ready when you arrive. Don’t wait for the limp to get worse — early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and faster recovery.
Same-day evaluation for limping and orthopaedic injuries
On-site imaging for fast, accurate diagnosis
Clear next steps — treatment, surgery, or home recovery plan
Trusted Emergency Care When It Matters Most
Pet families across New Market and Jefferson County trust Five Rivers for fast orthopaedic response, honest communication, and compassionate care during their most stressful moments.
F.A.Q.
Got Questions?
My pet is limping but still putting some weight on the leg — do I still need to come in?
Possibly, yes — especially if the limping started suddenly, followed any kind of trauma, or is getting worse. Hairline fractures, CCL ligament tears, and nerve injuries often allow partial weight bearing at first but deteriorate without treatment. If you’re unsure, call us at (423) 581-9492 and we can help you assess the situation over the phone.
What are the most common causes of limping in dogs and cats?
Common causes include soft tissue sprains and strains, CCL or ACL ligament tears, fractures from trauma or falls, patellar luxation (kneecap slipping out of position), paw pad lacerations or embedded foreign objects, toenail avulsion, hip dysplasia flare-ups, and joint disease. In older pets, sudden lameness can also result from bone density changes or underlying conditions like cancer.
What should I do before bringing my limping pet in?
Keep your pet as still and calm as possible — movement can worsen some injuries. Do not attempt to splint or bandage the leg at home; improper immobilization can cause additional damage. For small pets, use a flat board or blanket-lined box for transport. For large dogs, prevent jumping in and out of the vehicle. Call ahead at (423) 581-9492 if you can so we can prepare for your arrival.
Are you open 24/7 for limping and orthopaedic emergencies?
Yes. Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether your pet started limping in the middle of the night or right after an accident, call us at (423) 581-9492 and our team will be ready to help.
A Limp Is Your Pet's Way of Asking for Help.
Don’t wait to see if it gets better on its own. Five Rivers Pet Emergency Hospital is open around the clock in New Market, TN — with on-site imaging, immediate pain management, and a team that takes lameness seriously no matter the hour.
