Abnormal gait

[skinnydipper]

We drove past a lab with a grossly abnormal gait, it was so bad even OH noticed. I've never seen anything like it. He was trotting along and it seemed like all his limbs were swinging out, it's hard to describe. He looked like a young dog.

Something badly wrong but I don't know what.

I've had a dog with hip and elbow dysplasia and he didn't move like that. I wondered if it could be spine or neurological.

Given my crappy description I don't suppose anyone has any ideas or seen anything like it.

 

[skinnydipper]

Just found the term that describes the gait - circumduction.

 

[Widgeon]

Just found the term that describes the gait - circumduction.

Definitely sounds like a joint or spinal issue - "A hindlimb lameness may also cause an arcing gait, in which the limb arcs out during the swing phase instead of moving forward and back in a straight line. This motion, known as circumduction, can be due to tight muscles in the spine or limb, or to pain or stiffness when the affected limb is flexed; it may also be seen with forelimb lameness."

Key Components of Canine Gait Analysis in the Rehabilitation Exam

A thorough understanding of gait abnormalities and signs of lameness can help identify orthopedic and neurologic issues.

todaysveterinarynurse.com

(this isn't a specially chosen source, I was just googling because it's interesting isn't it....)

 

[inandout]

Wobblers

 

[skinnydipper]

Wobblers looks to be an uncoordinated gait, the lab's wasn't.

It was more like he was stiff and it was the only way he could get his legs forward.

Thank you for the suggestion.