Do you know what to do if your dog suffers an injury? These tips can help you care for your pet after an accident.
Paw Injuries
Paw injuries are particularly common in dogs. Hot pavement, broken glass, and chemicals can cause painful cuts or burns on paw pads. If you notice broken glass or other objects in your pet’s paws, try to gently remove them. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth if your pet’s paws are bleeding. If you suspect burned paws, use an icepack or cool running water to ease discomfort. After basic first aid, take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible — visit immediately if severe bleeding occurs or bleeding doesn’t stop after five minutes.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Bruises, tendonitis, bursitis, and strained or sprained muscles are considered soft tissue injuries. Your dog can develop one of these during strenuous physical activity or by bumping into a hard object. Bruises generally go away on their own in a few days, but the pain from sprains and strains may last longer. Ice packs and heating pads can help. Check with your veterinarian before giving your pet painkillers, as some human drugs can be toxic in pets. Rest helps muscles and ligaments heal; if your pet still limps a few days after the injury, call the vet.
Bites
Bites can be infected if they’re not treated promptly. If your pet has been in a fight, conduct a full body examination to check for bite wounds. Clean wounds with soapy water, then apply antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Take your dog to the vet if wounds continue to bleed. It’s also important to call the vet if your dog was bitten by a cat, as cats inject bacteria into the bite wound, increasing the risk of infection.
Auto Injuries
Even seemingly minor accidents can cause serious internal injuries. Your dog may seem fine initially but could soon develop serious health issues without prompt veterinary treatment. Bandage wounds and stabilize possible broken bones with splints made of towels, magazines, or other stiff materials before driving your pet to the veterinary office.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Tear
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears made the list of top five dog injuries. If your dog has a CCL tear, it may be reluctant to put weight on the affected leg, or you may hear a clicking sound when it walks. Surgery is the best option; without it, lameness may become permanent.
Nail Injuries
Your pet’s nails may bleed if you cut them too short or your dog catches a nail on something. Hold a styptic pencil against the nail to stop the bleeding, or put flour on the nail instead. Take your dog to the vet if the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few minutes or the entire nail is missing.