TRAUMA (HIT BY CAR/FALLS)

What Happens?

• Car accidents and falls are the most common types of trauma that are seen in pets.  
• It it important to remember that pets are very good at hiding injury
• The most common mistake made with these conditions is not seeking the care/evaluation by a veterinarian. 

What Does It Look Like?

• Injuries can range from broken toenails and abrasions to broken bones and shock.

What Do You Do?

• First and foremost, make sure the situation is safe for you and your pet
• Make sure you move your pet out of the road before triaging 
• Apply a muzzle - dogs usually bite because they are painful or scared, not because they are mean
• Check gum color and make sure it is pink and not white (a sign of blood loss or shock)
• Check to make sure pet is breathing well
• Check for wounds or limping
• If any wounds are noted, clean them with betadine and apply antibiotic ointment
• If injury to any leg is observed, try to stabilize leg and move to veterinarian