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Not sure what counts as a pet emergency? If your pet is having trouble breathing, can't wake up, has been injured, is having seizures, or has a worsening medical condition, don't wait - visit the emergency vet immediately. Still unsure? When in doubt, it's always safer to get help.



How to Know if Your Pet Needs to See an Emergency Vet in Smyrna, GA

Shaking isn't always about being cold - your dog could be in pain, nauseated, scared, or even just excited! While some causes are harmless, others may need a vet's attention. If trembling is new or seems serious, don't wait.

Call Windy Hill Veterinary Hospital at 470 410-3036 or book online to get your pup checked out today!



Dog Shivering and Trembling in Smyrna, GA: Causes and Treatments

From off-leash romps at Burger Park to dog-friendly cafes like ParkGrounds in Atlanta, there are plenty of fun, safe places nearby for your pup to play and socialize. Whether you want a fenced-in space or shady trails, there's something for every dog and their human.

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Top 6 Dog Parks in Smyrna, GA

Vaccines protect your dog from serious and potentially deadly diseases like rabies, distemper, and parvo. Following the proper vaccination schedule - starting as a puppy and continuing throughout adulthood - is essential for keeping your pet healthy and safe.



Dog Vaccination Schedule in Smyrna, GA and Why It's Important

If your dog is limping, it may be something minor like a torn nail or something more serious like a broken leg or torn ligament. Examine the paw if your dog allows it, but avoid manipulating the leg if they seem in pain. When in doubt, it's always best to consult your vet.



My Dog is Limping in Smyrna, GA, What Should I Do?

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Windy Hill Veterinary Hospital has been a trusted part of the Smyrna community for years, known for personalized medicine, strong client relationships, and a supportive team culture. Located in Smyrna, GA, our practice offers veterinary professionals the chance to grow while enjoying Southern charm and hospitality. Our team values communication, respect, and doing what's right for patients, clients, and each other. Explore our open roles or reach out to learn more.

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When your pet suddenly develops a limp, you may wonder whether it is a problem that requires urgent care or an issue that can be managed at home with rest. Let’s run through the list of the most common reasons pets limp and when a limp turns into an emergency.&nbsp;&nbsp;Causes of limping in petsPets limp for a multitude of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:<ul><li>Osteoarthritis</li><li>Torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)</li><li>Hip or elbow dysplasia</li><li>Anatomical abnormalities</li><li>Joint dislocation</li><li>Muscle sprain or strain</li><li>Tick-borne disease</li><li>Torn nail</li><li>Wound on the paw or leg</li><li>Nerve damage</li><li>Bone fracture</li><li>Cancer</li></ul>&nbsp;How to assess your pet’s limpPets can develop an acute or chronic limp that has varying degrees of severity. If your pet begins limping suddenly but then is fine after a few steps, they likely do not require any treatment. Pay attention to which leg your pet is limping on, along with how they act. For example, if your pet is limping on a hind leg in a toe-touching manner but does not seem to be in much pain, they likely have torn their cranial cruciate ligament. Or, if your pet’s lameness shifts from leg to leg and sometimes disappears completely, they may have a tick-borne illness like Lyme disease. These conditions require veterinary treatment, as does a limp that results in no weight being put on the affected limb or one that worsens over time.&nbsp;&nbsp;When a limping pet needs emergency treatmentWhen your pet begins to limp, you can try to restrict their activity for a few days to see if they improve. However, some limping conditions require immediate treatment, largely because of concurrent problems. If your pet has a severe limp and any of the following signs, seek emergency veterinary care:<ul><li>Vocalization (e.g., howling, yowling, or growling)</li><li>Trembling</li><li>Behavior changes (e.g., hiding, refusing to move, or being aggressive)</li><li>Bleeding</li><li>An obvious fracture or dislocation</li><li>Dragging the limb</li><li>Large swelling on the affected limb</li><li>Lethargy</li><li>Disorientation</li><li>High fever</li><li>Vomiting</li><li>Trouble breathing</li></ul>When in doubt about the severity of your pet’s limping, contact our team. We will triage their condition to determine the best course of action in caring for your furry pal.

Pets can limp for many reasons, including arthritis, injuries, infections, or fractures. Mild limping that improves quickly may not need urgent care, but watch for signs like vocalizing in pain, swelling, bleeding, disorientation, or inability to bear weight. If you notice any of these, or if the limp worsens, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. When unsure, contact us for advice on the best next steps.


Common Reasons for Pet Limps

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Common Reasons for Pet Limps

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