What tests might the vet do for a dog’s limp?

[NotQuiteUsual]

So our beautiful giant breed girl has developed a limp this week. We thought it was a strain as she yelped while rolling over then it started. But it's been a few days and its not improving so shes off to the vet.

What I am curious about is what tests can I expect to be done while shes at the vets? Our insurance policy means we have to pay upfront and they reimburse us so I want to make sure we have enough money to cover the tests. Please don't be mean that we're having to worry about the money, I became disabled during her younger years and unable to work so our income dropped drastically during owning her. All I want is her out of pain.

Dog Limping: Causes, Treatment and When to See a Vet - Pawable https://share.google/0UM82z0e8OC7YYZZ6

There is a section here on what your vet will do. I also have a big fella and we discovered early arthritis. He is on Galiprant and YouMove. Both available online but Galiprant requires a script.
Do not under any circumstances give your girl any human painkillers.

If its that ligament with a C she would yelp and it does sound like it, but if it's arthritis he will walk the dog up and down, it will require some tests.

Sadly this is going to cost as vets always do. But once you establish what it is, the insurance should cover most of the medication.

The article is really good. Main thing is to stop the pain.
Big dog = big joint problems over their life. You don't say how old she is. This is important.
I hope it goes well for her. I would sell a kidney to save our boy if I had to.

Thank you for the information, shes 5 and a half so getting on a bit. I'd happily sell a kidney too, shes my baby. Shes walking pretty well on it. But there's a definite limp. Shes licking the paw on the otherwise a lot too so I think both legs are sore.

They'll give you an estimate of costs.
A physical exam will be the first thing and then maybe x-rays.
Entirely depends where in the UK as to how much that would cost.
It is up to individual practices whether they will claim directly or not, not the insurance companies so you can ask your vet if that's possible, they will likely want to see your policy to ensure it will be covered.

Back from thr vet. Shes booked for sn xray Wednesday. Shes on pain meds and steroids.

Its nit looking good. Mentions of mine disease and cancer. A lump was found that felt dodgy to the vet. Worrying wait till Wednesday now

Sounds OK to be honest. If she is limping and licking her paw its not a cruciate (I think thats the word) muscle which is the expensive bit.
I know this is a really stupid question but seriously, have you had a really good look at the paw, between the pads the fur etc. Mine often gets burrs and twice a piece of glass. The licking makes me think it's organic rather than mechanical. I certainly hope so.Best of luck with it, and be upfront with your vet, make sure they dont "ladder" the treatment but you get only what you need.

So the xray was moved up to today as she declined. Its bone cancer. We sayngoodbyebto her on Thursday

@NotQuiteUsual
So sorry

Aw nooo, I am so so sorry. I can't say anything helpful at all. Animals really can break your heart. But from your previous posts I can ascertain that she has had a wonderful life, filled with love. And now you spare her the pain.
Bless you.

So sorry. X

I'm so sorry. 💐

I’m so so sorry it’s so hard saying goodbye. Look after yourself too

Thank you everyone. We've got a dog pram for large dogs to try with her. So she can go on her favourite walks one last time.

We've got her lots of treats to enjoy too. We're going to make the next few days calm and fun.

I'm so sorry. Lovely looking dog and I hope you have the best last days together you can.

You were in my thoughts today when I woke up...weirdly stalkerish I know.
I just want to say be strong and hold your girl close. Make sure yours is the last face she sees before St Francis.

Thank you @ThisWiseRobin that means a lot. She's really dhs dog she he'll be head end when she goes for her deep sleep. She loves my bum scratches best so I'll be tail end.

I'm so sorry. Sending you strength for today. What a beautiful dog.